South Dakota men's basketball has hired Joe White as an assistant coach, announced by head coach Eric Peterson. White previously spent seven years at Idaho State, where he was the associate head coach for the last three seasons. He received several accolades for his coaching prowess, contributing to Idaho State's notable performances in the Big Sky Conference. His defensive strategies helped Idaho State rank among the best in the nation for opponents' points per game, while also fostering academic success on the team. White brings a wealth of experience, including head coaching at Lane Community College, where he won a regional championship.

By the Numbers
  • Idaho State ranked No. 1 in the Big Sky and No. 9 in NCAA for opponents' points per game at 61.7 in 2020-21.
  • White's Idaho State team achieved a 3.55 GPA in the fall semester of 2025-26, earning the highest GPA in the Big Sky Conference.
Yes, But

While White's hiring is promising, some may question how transitioning from Idaho State to South Dakota will affect his coaching effectiveness in a new environment.

State of Play
  • White joins a program looking to build on recent success within the NCAA landscape.
  • The Coyotes aim to improve both on-court performance and academic achievements within a competitive conference.
What's Next

As White integrates into the South Dakota program, expectations will focus on enhancing team defense and securing strong finishes in upcoming seasons. His experience with player development may play a crucial role in attracting talent.

Bottom Line

Joe White's diverse coaching background positions him as a valuable addition to South Dakota men's basketball, with high hopes for improving both athletic and academic outcomes as the program moves forward.