Illinois State Surges Past South Dakota 67–60, Punches Ticket to WNIT Championship game 2026

VERMILLION, S.D. — Illinois State is heading to the WNIT Championship, and they earned it with grit, poise, and a fourth-quarter takeover that silenced the South Dakota home crowd. Behind a dominant night from DeAnna Washington and clutch shot-making across the roster, the Redbirds defeated South Dakota 67–60 in a tense semifinal battle.

South Dakota controlled the early tempo and even held an eight-point lead in the second quarter, but once Illinois State settled in, the Redbirds’ offense turned sharp and efficient. They shot an impressive 49% from the field and 44% from deep, while limiting the Coyotes to just 40% shooting and 27.8% from three.

Washington Takes Over

Illinois State’s engine all night was DeAnna Washington, who delivered a powerhouse performance:

21 points
11 rebounds (all defensive)
4 steals
4-of-7 from three

Washington’s two-way impact set the tone and repeatedly halted South Dakota runs.

Fayta and Martin Deliver the Daggers

Trista Fayta and Alana Martin added 14 points each, with Fayta also leading the team in assists (5). With South Dakota clawing back late, Fayta’s layup at the 1:26 mark pushed the lead to 62–55, setting up the final surge.

Illinois State controlled the fourth quarter, stretching the lead to 15 points (60–45) with just over six minutes to play. Though South Dakota made a final push — capped by a three from Alix Robles with 20 seconds left — it wasn’t enough.

South Dakota’s Efforts Fall Short

The Coyotes fought with everything they had.

Molly Joyce led USD with 16 points,
Robles added 14, and
Pati Williams pulled down 7 boards.

But South Dakota couldn’t overcome cold stretches, including a brutal run of just 1-for-7 shooting late in the game.

Redbirds Close Like Champions

Illinois State’s composure showed in the final minute. Kamryn Hurt buried two clutch free throws at 0:17 to seal the win and secure the Redbirds’ spot in the championship game.

Illinois State out-assisted, outshot, and out-executed South Dakota when it mattered most.