STORRS, CT (Dakota News Now) – South Dakota State is no stranger to the icons of Division One women’s college basketball.

And though tomorrow night’s meeting with the Jackrabbits in the NCAA Tournament’s Round of 32 will be the first for one of the sport’s legendary coaches against them, Geno Auriemma knows all about the SDSU.

After their first round wins yesterday both UCONN and State hit the practice floor today ahead of tomorrow night’s game.

While the Jackrabbits have done a nice job establishing themselves as one of the top mid-majors programs in the sport since moving up to Division One two decades ago they’ve yet to face the 11-time national champion Huskies.

And it’s not for lack of trying.

After all SDSU is well known for playing anyone, anytime, anywhere and Auriemma, and college basketball’s all-time wins leader, was in no hurry to face Aaron Johnston’s program when presented the opportunity.

“Common sense would tell you, well, they’re the underdog but they would always win. Then they hit it at home when they invited us to come and play in their tournament. And I said no way in hell am I coming up there. To do what they’ve done, it’s just been really impressive to watch.” Auriemma says.

“Connecticut is fantastic in every facet, offensively, defensively. The history is impressive. I think everybody is aware of that. But tomorrow, we’ve got to find a way to go out there and play our best basketball.“ Johnston says.

Tip off between the Jacks and Huskies is scheduled for 7:00 PM tomorrow with live television coverage on ESPN.

The winner advances to the Sweet 16 in Spokane, Washington, and will face the victor of tomorrow’s second round game between Iowa and Oklahoma next week.

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