OSU Cowgirls ready for NCAA tournament under coach Jacie Hoyt's leadership

The OSU Cowgirls basketball team, led by head coach Jacie Hoyt, is heading to the NCAA tournament as a 7-seed, and will face South Dakota State in the first round.

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Coach Hoyt credits the team's success to their strong connection, selflessness, and commitment to winning.

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"Just a lot of players who are completely bought into one another," Coach Hoyt said. "They're bought into everything that we ask them to do, and they're just winners."

South Dakota State is described as a well-coached, balanced team with strong shooting and a skilled post player.

"At this time of year, there's nothing easy," Coach Hoyt said. "Every team is good, every team is playing for a reason."

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Coach Hoyt gave birth to her daughter, Harlow, in December and returned to coaching less than two weeks later.

The OSU Cowgirls are traveling to Connecticut for their first-round matchup, with hopes of extending their season.