In this episode of the State of Hoops podcast, hosts Todd Schlekeway and Nate Malchow reflect on the New Year and discuss the various high school basketball classics that took place over the Christmas/Holiday season. With high school teams now having a month's worth of games under their belt, Episode 9 also unveils the "Chalk Talk" segment, where Todd and Nate discuss the importance of ball reversals to mitigate over-dribbling and to foster greater efficiency offensively in the half court. As always, we close the episode with the Show-Out Shout-Out Segment and a big thanks to our sponsors who keep the game going.The State of Hoops Podcast Season 1 Sponsors include the ⁠South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame⁠, ⁠Tiefenthaler Homes with Hegg Real Estate,⁠ ⁠Park Bench Apparel,⁠ ⁠Charles Schwab – Sioux Falls (Lonnie Struckman and Zach Hanson Financial Consultants),⁠ and ⁠Insight.⁠ Basketball fans in the state are encouraged to interact with the podcast hosts via e-mail at stateofhoopspodcast@gmail.com and follow, like, subscribe, and engage with the State of Hoops Podcast on the following social media platforms: *YouTube Channel:@StateofHoopsPodcast *Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast *X: @StateofHoopsPod

In this "Legend Series Episode" of the State of Hoops Podcast, hosts Todd Schlekeway and Nate Malchow welcome basketball icon Becky (Flynn) Jensen. They discuss her remarkable journey from growing up in a basketball family in small town Wakonda, South Dakota, to becoming one of the state's all-time great girls basketball players.

The conversation highlights Becky's father/coach Ron Flynn's influence on her work ethic, her rise to become a record-setting basketball player in the state, and the legacy of the Wakonda girls basketball program, which achieved an impressive 101-game winning streak. Through it all, Becky reflects on the importance of teamwork, the impact of losses, and her hopes for her and her father's legacies in the world of basketball.

Whether you're a basketball enthusiast or simply love a good story of dedication and triumph, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that celebrates the spirit of the game and the power of community.

The State of Hoops Podcast – Season 1 Sponsors include the following companies and organizations: South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame • Tiefenthaler Homes with Hegg Real Estate • Park Bench Apparel • Charles Schwab – Sioux Falls (Lonnie Struckman & Zach Hanson, Financial Consultants) • and Insight. Basketball fans across South Dakota are encouraged to reach out and engage with the podcast via e-mail at stateofhoopspodcast@gmail.com and on the following social media platforms:*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast *Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast *X: @StateofHoopsPod

In this episode of the State of Hoops podcast, hosts Todd Schlekeway and Nate Malchow dive into the rich tradition and excitement surrounding the 2025 Lakota Nation Invitational. Joined by special guest Dale Pine Jr., they explore the impact of Native American basketball in South Dakota, highlighting key players and teams to watch. From the cultural significance of the event to the thrilling matchups on the court, this episode offers an in-depth preview of one of the nation's premier basketball tournaments. Tune in to discover the stories and insights that make the Lakota Nation Invitational a must-see event.The State of Hoops Podcast – Season 1 Sponsors include the following companies and organizations: South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame • Tiefenthaler Homes with Hegg Real Estate • Park Bench Apparel • Charles Schwab – Sioux Falls (Lonnie Struckman & Zach Hanson, Financial Consultants) • and Insight. Basketball fans across South Dakota are encouraged to reach out and engage with the podcast via e-mail at stateofhoopspodcast@gmail.com and on the following social media platforms:*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast *Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast *X: @StateofHoopsPod

In this episode of the State of Hoops Podcast, hosts Todd Schlekeway and Nate Malchow are joined by reporter Jason Andera from SDPB Sports to discuss the 2025-2026 South Dakota High School Boys Basketball Season.

The conversation previews the landscape of South Dakota high school basketball, focusing on the upcoming Class AA, A, and B boys' seasons. The discussion highlights the excitement surrounding the upcoming season and the potential of various teams and players in each class.

The State of Hoops Podcast – Season 1 Sponsors include the following companies and organizations: South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame • Tiefenthaler Homes with Hegg Real Estate • Park Bench Apparel • Charles Schwab – Sioux Falls (Lonnie Struckman & Zach Hanson, Financial Consultants) • and Insight.

Basketball fans across South Dakota are encouraged to reach out and engage with the podcast via e-mail at stateofhoopspodcast@gmail.com and on the following social media platforms:

*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast

*Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast

*X: @StateofHoopsPod

In this episode of the State of Hoops Podcast, hosts Todd Schlekeway and Nate Malchow are joined by sports reporters Jason Andera (SDPB Sports) and Ryan Deal (605 Sports) to discuss the upcoming South Dakota High School Girls Basketball Season. The episode devotes conversation and coverage to key players, teams to watch, and memorable games from past seasons, while also providing insights into the competitive landscape of Class B, A, and AA girls basketball in the Rushmore State. The podcast discussion also highlights the excitement surrounding the season and the talent emerging from South Dakota's girls basketball programs. The State of Hoops Podcast – Season 1 Sponsors include the following companies and organizations: South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame • Tiefenthaler Homes with Hegg Real Estate • Park Bench Apparel • Charles Schwab – Sioux Falls (Lonnie Struckman & Zach Hanson, Financial Consultants) • and Insight. Basketball fans across South Dakota are encouraged to reach out and engage with the podcast via e-mail at stateofhoopspodcast@gmail.com and on the following social media platforms:*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast *Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast *X: @StateofHoopsPod

Episode 4 of State of Hoops debuts the podcast’s new Legends Series with an in-depth and personal conversation featuring Jason Sutherland, one of South Dakota’s most electrifying and influential multi-sport athletes. Renowned for his eye-popping athleticism and competitive fire, Sutherland’s legacy in South Dakota basketball, and his broader impact on the state’s sports culture, remains unmatched. This episode takes listeners on a vivid journey through Sutherland’s formative years, from the impactful influence of his father and his childhood in Spearfish, SD, to his standout high school career with the Watertown Arrows. Jason looks back at classic ESD rivalries, unforgettable moments on the hardwood, and the experiences that shaped him into one of the most revered athletes of his era. The conversation also explores his successful collegiate career as a member of the Missouri Tigers, competing on the grand stage of the vaunted Big 8 Conference. The episode features rare archival video footage (courtesy of Ryan Remmers/Arrow TV - Watertown, SD) showcasing Sutherland’s acrobatic highlights, complemented by Jason’s own commentary on the craft, creativity, and adrenaline behind the art of the dunk. But basketball is only part of what makes Sutherland a true legend. Listeners also gain insight into Jason’s multi-sport excellence, including behind-the-scenes stories from his time in track and field and on the football field, further cementing his status as one of South Dakota’s most dynamic all-around athletes. Through it all, Sutherland’s authenticity, humility, and gratitude shine as he reflects on the people, moments, and memories that defined a golden era of South Dakota high school sports. The State of Hoops Podcast – Season 1 Sponsors include the following companies and organizations: South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame • Tiefenthaler Homes with Hegg Real Estate • Park Bench Apparel • Charles Schwab – Sioux Falls (Lonnie Struckman & Zach Hanson, Financial Consultants) • and Insight. Basketball fans across South Dakota are encouraged to reach out and engage with the podcast via e-mail at stateofhoopspodcast@gmail.com and on the following social media platforms:*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast *Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast *X: @StateofHoopsPod

College Basketball has tipped off! In this episode of the State of Hoops Podcast, hosts Todd Schlekeway and Nate Malchow sit down with NCAA Division I basketball official Kelly Pfeifer. They explore Kelly's roots in South Dakota, his path to becoming a top-tier referee, and the challenges and rewards of officiating at the highest levels.

Kelly shares insights into the preparation and mindset required for the job, the impact of social media on officiating, and the importance of mentoring the next generation of officials. Tune in for an engaging conversation that highlights the dedication and passion behind the whistle.

As always, the episode closes with the Bleacher Preachers fan engagement segment, Show-Out Shout-Outs, and big thanks to our sponsors who keep the game going.The State of Hoops Podcast Season 1 Sponsors include the ⁠South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame⁠, ⁠Tiefenthaler Homes with Hegg Real Estate,⁠ ⁠Park Bench Apparel,⁠ ⁠Charles Schwab – Sioux Falls (Lonnie Struckman and Zach Hanson Financial Consultants),⁠ and ⁠Insight.⁠ Basketball fans in the state are encouraged to interact with the podcast hosts via e-mail at stateofhoopspodcast@gmail.com and follow, like, subscribe, and engage with the State of Hoops Podcast on the following social media platforms:

*YouTube Channel:@StateofHoopsPodcast

*Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast

*X: @StateofHoopsPod

The leaves are falling and the basketballs are bouncing - Episode 2 of the State of Hoops Podcast is here! In this episode, Todd Schlekeway and Nate Malchow talk all things fall hoops -college practices, youth club season prep, and the countdown to the high school season.

This episode also dives into the WNBA Finals coaching showdown between South Dakota's own Becky Hammon and Nate Tibbetts. The guys share their personal ties and stories to the two prominent coaches, and what this matchup means for the state's basketball legacy.

We also hit the “Give and Go” segment, where we tackle the growing conversation around how club volleyball is impacting girls’ basketball participation across South Dakota. Chow brings a unique, personal perspective you won’t want to miss.

The episode also includes breaking news on a reveal of one of South Dakota's most iconic basketball players/athletes announced as the first guest on an upcoming State of Hoops Podcast Legends Series episode (hint: this player could fly).

As always, we close with the Bleacher Preacher fan engagement question, Show-Out Shout-Outs, and big thanks to our sponsors who keep the game going.

The State of Hoops Podcast Season 1 Sponsors include the ⁠South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame⁠, ⁠Tiefenthaler Homes with Hegg Real Estate,⁠ ⁠Park Bench Apparel,⁠ ⁠Charles Schwab – Sioux Falls (Lonnie Struckman and Zach Hanson Financial Consultants),⁠ and ⁠Insight.⁠

Basketball fans in the state are encouraged to interact with the podcast hosts via e-mail at stateofhoopspodcast@gmail.com and follow, like, subscribe, and engage with the State of Hoops Podcast on the following social media platforms: *YouTube Channel:@StateofHoopsPodcast *Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast *X: @StateofHoopsPod