State of Hoops: A South Dakota Basketball Podcast

The calendar has turned to September, school is back in session, and South Dakota basketball is already starting to feel the anticipation of a new season. In Episode 29 of State of Hoops, Todd and Nate look ahead to Season 2 while celebrating how far the podcast has come since its launch.

The guys officially announce the formation of State of Hoops Productions LLC, creating a foundation to grow the podcast and develop new basketball-related brands, projects and content. They also invite South Dakota businesses to join the State of Hoops family through Season 2 sponsorship opportunities.

Plus, coaches around the state get a challenge: send us your SWAG! Todd and Nate want to represent schools on the State of Hoops set and launch a potential recurring “State of Hoops School SWAG” feature.

The episode also looks beyond South Dakota with a discussion about South Dakota native Nate Tibbetts and his opportunity on the WNBA/FIBA stage, before the guys hit the Chalk Talk board to debate their favorite crunch-time offensive sets and late-game decisions.

The Bleacher Preacher asks: Who is showing out in the fall? Todd and Nate want to hear about basketball players making an impact in football, volleyball, soccer, cross country and other fall activities.

Finally, the guys close with a heartfelt Show-Out/Shout-Out in memory of former Vermillion coach Jay Hennies, honoring his impact on his players, his community and South Dakota basketball.

Season 2 is coming—and State of Hoops is getting bigger.

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 [email protected] and on the following social media platforms:*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast *Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast *X: @StateofHoopsPod*Facebook: State of Hoops: A South Dakota Basketball Podcast

In Episode 28, State of Hoops co-hosts Todd and Nate go behind the scenes with two of South Dakota’s top Class of 2026 basketball standouts, Ashlan Carlow and Sam DeGroot, as they prepare to make the jump from high school to college basketball.

Carlow, a Maȟpíya Lúta standout headed to the University of South Dakota, and DeGroot, a Lincoln High School standout headed to Augustana, reflect on their high school careers and what it means to continue playing at the collegiate level right here in South Dakota.

The conversation explores the work happening beyond the game—including summer training, strength and conditioning, skill development, nutrition, recovery, academics, time management, and mental preparation. They also discuss the challenges of entering a college program where everyone was a standout, earning minutes, adjusting to the increased speed and physicality, and preparing to embrace whatever role their teams need.

The episode wraps up with a fun Give and Go rapid-fire segment before Ashlan and Sam reflect on what they’ll miss about high school basketball, the people and communities that shaped them, and what they hope to carry with them as they begin the next chapter of their basketball careers.

Two accomplished South Dakota student-athletes. Two in-state college programs. One exciting next step.

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 [email protected] and on the following social media platforms:

*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast

*Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast

*X: @StateofHoopsPod

*Facebook: State of Hoops: A South Dakota Basketball Podcast

In Episode 27, Todd and Nate welcome Mike Begeman, President of the South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame Board of Directors, to celebrate the outstanding Class of 2026. Together, they honor the players, teams, and stories that have helped shape South Dakota basketball across generations while exploring the Hall of Fame's nomination and selection process and the importance of preserving the state's rich basketball history.

The episode highlights every member of the 2026 class, from pioneers of the 1940s and 1950s to legendary stars of the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, and recognizes the 1975 Freeman Flyers as this year's Team of Excellence. Along the way, Mike, Todd, and Nate share memorable stories, personal connections, and reflections on what makes each inductee's legacy so special.

The episode concludes with details on the South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame Induction Banquet, taking place Saturday, August 22, in Sioux Falls, along with information about the free public reception on Friday, August 21. Whether you're a lifelong South Dakota basketball fan or simply love great sports stories, this episode is a celebration of the people and moments that define the state's basketball tradition.

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 [email protected] and on the following social media platforms:

*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast

*Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast

*X: @StateofHoopsPod

*Facebook: State of Hoops: A South Dakota Basketball Podcast

On Episode 26 of the State of Hoops Podcast, Todd and Nate recap the outstanding response to the Armour episode before diving into the busy summer AAU season. Schlek shares observations from AAU basketball trips his oldest son's team made to Nashville and Chicago this month, discussing the value of playing elite competition during NCAA Live Periods and the recruiting atmosphere at major summer events.

The episode's "Give and Go" segment takes a fun turn as Schlek reviews The Godfather I and II movies, after finally watching them during his travels. The conversation expands into favorite basketball movies, including Hoosiers, Blue Chips, and Teen Wolf, while asking listeners who South Dakota's version of Jimmy Chitwood might be.

The episode also features a South Dakota basketball trivia challenge, honors the memories of Dave Kemp and Gary Evjen in the Show Out/Shout Out segment, and closes with thanks to listeners and the show's sponsors.

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 [email protected] and on the following social media platforms:

*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast

*Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast

*X: @StateofHoopsPod

How does a town of less than a thousand people build one of the greatest basketball traditions in South Dakota history?

In this special Traditions Series episode of the State of Hoops Podcast, Todd and Nate explore the remarkable legacy of Armour Packers basketball, a program built on family, coaching, accountability, and a community-wide expectation of excellence.

Joined by legendary coach Burnell Glanzer, Dana (Nielsen) Honner, Pat Tiefenthaler, and Austin Ledeboer, they revisit the undefeated 1978 state champions, the unforgettable Armour vs Beresford 1979 state boys' championship game, the boys' state-record 64-game winning streak, the girls' five consecutive state titles, and the generations of families who helped define Armour basketball.

More than a story about championships, this episode examines the culture that fueled decades of success and asks a timeless question: Could the "Packer Way" still work today?It's a celebration of one of South Dakota's greatest basketball dynasties, and the people who built it.

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 [email protected] and on the following social media platforms:

*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast

*Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast

*X: @StateofHoopsPod

This Father's Day, State of Hoops celebrates the men who helped shape South Dakota basketball, and the generations they inspired.

Todd and Nate open this special tribute episode by reflecting on the unique bond between basketball and family. Nate shines a spotlight on his father, South Dakota Basketball Hall of Famer Tom Malchow. From his days at Aberdeen Central and a State A Championship in 1961 to his All-State honors and collegiate career at St. Olaf College, Tom's basketball story reflects the lasting impact one generation can have on the next. Nate also shares personal reflections on the lessons, values, and love for the game passed down through his father.

South Dakota Basketball Hall of Famer Jim Schlekeway, Todd's father, then joins the episode as a special guest. Jim shares stories from his upbringing in Lake City, SD, his legendary playing career at Britton High School, and his remarkable journey to becoming one of the state's most respected players and coaches.

Viewers and Listeners will hear about Jim's 1,900-point high school career, Britton's memorable 1962 State B Tournament run, his standout career at Northern State University where he scored more than 1,800 points, and his experiences touring Europe after college alongside future Olympic players.

Jim also reflects on a coaching career that spanned more than four decades, including stops at O'Gorman, Bloomington (Minnesota), Todd County, and a 30 + year run at Mobridge that produced over 500 victories. Along the way, he shares lessons on leadership, the evolution of the game, and what South Dakota basketball has meant throughout his life.

The episode closes with Nate and Todd encouraging viewers and listeners to celebrate the basketball dads, grandfathers, coaches, and mentors who helped shape their own journeys.

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 [email protected] and on the following social media platforms:

*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast

*Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast

*X: @StateofHoopsPod

Before South Dakota players were earning national attention, before spring and summer basketball became a statewide phenomenon, there was the Dakota Schoolers.In Episode 23, Nate and Todd sit down with Dakota Schoolers founder Paul Seville for a fascinating look back at the origins of one of the most influential AAU basketball programs in South Dakota history. From humble beginnings in Aberdeen to competing on the national stage, Paul shares the challenges, sacrifices, and vision that helped transform opportunities for generations of South Dakota athletes.

The conversation explores the rise of AAU basketball in the state, the relationships that opened doors with college recruiters, memorable stories from the Schoolers' early years, and the players who helped put South Dakota basketball on the map, including the emergence of future NBA star Mike Miller.

But this episode isn't just about the past. Paul also offers a candid assessment of today's club basketball landscape, discussing what has changed, what has been lost, what still works, and what young players, parents, and coaches should focus on moving forward.Whether you're a longtime South Dakota hoops fan, a former AAU player, or someone interested in the evolution of youth basketball, this is a conversation that connects the game's past, present, and future.

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 [email protected] and on the following social media platforms:

*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast

*Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast

*X: @StateofHoopsPod

In Episode 22 of the State of Hoops, Todd and Nate sit down with South Dakota’s 2026 Mr. & Miss Basketball winners, Ashlyn Koupal of Wagner and Blake Ellwein of Huron, for an unforgettable conversation about family, community, work ethic, and the journeys that led them to becoming two of the most celebrated players in state history. The episode dives into the significance of the South Dakota Mr. & Miss Basketball awards, the role Ashlyn and Blake's families and hometown communities played in their development, and the behind-the-scenes work that fueled their success. During the conversation, Ashlyn and Blake also share favorite state tournament memories, leadership lessons, recruiting experiences, rapid-fire “Give and Go” answers, and advice for the next generation of South Dakota hoopers. It’s a celebration of two historic careers and a powerful reminder of what makes South Dakota basketball special. 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 [email protected] and on the following social media platforms:*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast *Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast *X: @StateofHoopsPod

In Episode 22 of the State of Hoops, Todd and Nate sit down with South Dakota’s 2026 Mr. & Miss Basketball winners, Ashlyn Koupal of Wagner and Blake Ellwein of Huron, for an unforgettable conversation about family, community, work ethic, and the journeys that led them to becoming two of the most celebrated players in state history.

The episode dives into the significance of the South Dakota Mr. & Miss Basketball awards, the role Ashlyn and Blake's families and hometown communities played in their development, and the behind-the-scenes work that fueled their success. During the conversation, Ashlyn and Blake also share favorite state tournament memories, leadership lessons, recruiting experiences, rapid-fire “Give and Go” answers, and advice for the next generation of South Dakota hoopers.

It’s a celebration of two historic careers and a powerful reminder of what makes South Dakota basketball special.

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 [email protected] and on the following social media platforms:

*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast

*Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast

*X: @StateofHoopsPod

In Episode 21 of The State of Hoops: a South Dakota Basketball Podcast, host Todd Schlekeway sits down with MJ Hrabik, founder of Metaballic Hoops Academy, to explore the growing impact of year-round skills training on player development across the state. As AAU season ramps up and the offseason becomes increasingly critical, the conversation highlights how access to individualized training is reshaping the way South Dakota athletes improve and compete.

MJ shares his basketball journey, from his early love of the game to his playing career and transition into coaching and entrepreneurship, along with the inspiration behind launching Metaballic Hoops Academy based in the Britton, SD area. He dives into his training philosophy, detailing how a blend of in-person instruction and digital tools, including a custom app, allows him to reach and develop athletes in both local and regional settings.

Closing out the episode, the discussion broadens to the rise of skills trainers across South Dakota, why it’s happening, what it means for players and programs, and how families can navigate this new landscape.

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 [email protected] and on the following social media platforms:

*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast

*Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast

*X: @StateofHoopsPod