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Vermillion Today
By the People, for the People
USD's Molly Joyce explodes for 31 points in WNIT win
Junior guard's big game sends team to Fab Four, keeps season alive
Mar. 31, 2026 at 3:53am
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Molly Joyce's 31-point outburst fuels USD's WNIT run, showcasing the team's explosive energy and her individual talent.Vermillion TodayMolly Joyce, a junior guard for the University of South Dakota women's basketball team, scored 31 points in a 65-56 victory over an opponent in the Women's National Invitation Tournament (WNIT). This win advances USD to the Fab Four round of the tournament and keeps their season going. Joyce had struggled in the first two WNIT games, scoring just 5 and 7 points, but her teammates and coaches encouraged her before Sunday's game, which helped fuel her big performance.
Why it matters
Joyce is a key player for USD, and her ability to bounce back from a couple of subpar games and deliver a dominant 31-point outing was crucial in keeping the team's WNIT run alive. The Coyotes' success in the tournament is important for the program and the community of Vermillion.
The details
In Sunday's 65-56 win, Joyce was able to get to the rim and finish shots despite USD's opponent sending multiple defenders at her at times. Her coach, Carrie Eighmey, praised Joyce's athleticism in being able to score in those situations.
- The game took place on Sunday, March 30, 2026.
- USD has now advanced to the Fab Four round of the WNIT.
The players
Molly Joyce
A junior guard for the University of South Dakota women's basketball team who scored 31 points in a key WNIT win.
Carrie Eighmey
The head coach of the University of South Dakota women's basketball team.
What they’re saying
“I had a couple of, I struggled the past couple of games I've been struggling in practice, and all my teammates and coaches said they need me today and they just said how much they trust me so that fueled me.”
— Molly Joyce, Junior guard, USD women's basketball
“They were bringing two three bodies at her at times and she wasn't just getting to the rim and getting fouled she was finishing some of those shots. It shows you how athletic Molly is.”
— Carrie Eighmey, Head coach, USD women's basketball
What’s next
USD will now compete in the Fab Four round of the WNIT as they look to continue their postseason run.
The takeaway
Molly Joyce's ability to bounce back from a couple of subpar performances and deliver a dominant 31-point game was crucial in keeping USD's WNIT season alive. Her teammates and coaches' encouragement helped fuel her big outing, showcasing the team's strong support for their star player.
