Phoenix Mercury to Play First WNBA Game in South Dakota at Sanford Pentagon
The Phoenix Mercury will make history on April 25, 2026, as they face the Chicago Sky in the first-ever WNBA game played in the state of South Dakota. The preseason matchup will take place at the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls.
Why This Matters
This game represents a significant milestone for women’s basketball, bringing a WNBA contest to a new market and providing local fans with the opportunity to experience professional women’s basketball firsthand. The event too underscores the WNBA’s ongoing efforts to expand its reach and cultivate new fan bases.
Game Details
The Phoenix Mercury and Chicago Sky will compete in a preseason game at the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on April 25, 2026. The game is scheduled to begin at 3:00 p.m. CT. Tickets will head on sale on March 25, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. CT through Ticketmaster.
A Homecoming for Coach Tibbetts
The game holds special significance for Phoenix Mercury Head Coach Nate Tibbetts, who grew up in the Sioux Falls area. He played college basketball at the University of South Dakota and has deep roots in the local basketball community. His father, Fred Tibbetts, enjoyed a distinguished coaching career in South Dakota, winning 11 state championships.
Youth Basketball Clinic
In conjunction with the game, the Phoenix Mercury will host a youth basketball clinic at the Sanford Pentagon on Friday, April 24, 2026. The clinic is open to girls in grades 3-8 and will be led by Mercury players and coaches. Registration is limited to 150 athletes and is currently open.
What They Are Saying
“We’re excited to bring a WNBA game to South Dakota for the first time. This is a great opportunity for local fans to see professional women’s basketball,” said Nate Tibbetts, Head Coach of the Phoenix Mercury.
Key Takeaways
- The first WNBA game in South Dakota will be played on April 25, 2026, at the Sanford Pentagon.
- The Phoenix Mercury will face the Chicago Sky in a preseason matchup.
- The game is a homecoming for Mercury Head Coach Nate Tibbetts.
- A youth basketball clinic will be held on April 24, 2026, for girls in grades 3-8.
- Tickets go on sale March 25, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. CT.
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