WNBA History: Phoenix Mercury to Play First-Ever South Dakota Game at Sanford Pentagon
top of page
Search

WNBA History: Phoenix Mercury to Play First-Ever South Dakota Game at Sanford Pentagon

Purple logo with orange outline, featuring "Sioux Falls Showdown" text and logos for two teams facing off. Event on April 25, 2026.

Northeast Radio SD News – Sioux Falls, SD - For the first time in history, the WNBA is coming to South Dakota.


The Phoenix Mercury will take on the Chicago Sky in a preseason matchup at the Sanford Pentagon on April 25, 2026. Tip-off is scheduled for 3 p.m. CT.


While the game is a milestone for the state, it serves as a major homecoming for Phoenix Mercury Head Coach Nate Tibbetts. A Sioux Falls native and University of South Dakota standout, Tibbetts’ roots in the local basketball scene run deep, having previously coached for both the University of Sioux Falls and the NBA G League’s Sioux Falls Skyforce.


“Bringing the WNBA to Sioux Falls and the Sanford Pentagon has been a dream of ours for years,” said Jesse Smith, vice president of Sanford Sports. “We want to thank the WNBA and the Phoenix Mercury for showcasing the league... to the youth basketball players in our region and our passionate fans.”


Local Ties on the Sideline

The homecoming atmosphere extends beyond the head coach. Mercury assistant coach Megan Vogel returns to the state where she became a legend at South Dakota State University (SDSU), finishing her collegiate career as the second all-time leading scorer for the Jackrabbits.


Youth Clinic: Learning from the Pros

The Mercury isn’t just coming to play; they’re coming to mentor. On Friday, April 24, the team will host a youth basketball clinic at the Pentagon for girls in grades 3-8.


·         Led by: Mercury players and coaches.

·         Capacity: Limited to 150 athletes.

·         Registration: Open now at https://bit.ly/3NBY5U3.


Ticket Information

Demand is expected to be high for this historic 3,250-seat venue event.

·         On Sale: Wednesday, March 25, at 10 a.m. CT.

·         Where to Buy: Ticketmaster.com.


A Premier Basketball Venue

Since opening in 2013, the Sanford Pentagon has become a hub for high-level hoops, hosting over 100 Division I games and serving as the home of the Sioux Falls Skyforce. While the Pentagon hosted an NBA preseason game in its inaugural year, this marks the first time WNBA stars will grace the Heritage Court.

bottom of page