Omaha Mavericks Welcome Jackrabbits on Back of a Three Game Winning Streak

Basketball fans in Omaha are no strangers to watching a nationally recognized player put on a show on the hardwood. The problem is, that show usually comes by way of Creighton forward Doug McDermott.

On Thursday, the Omaha Mavericks welcome Nate Wolters and the South Dakota State Jackrabbits to their home arena in a game that should have the town buzzing.

Wolters has been a mainstay in National Player of the Year debates all season, despite playing for South Dakota State in the Summit League. In a season highlighted by a 53-point outing against IPFW, Wolters is averaging 22.9 points, 5.6 rebounds and 5.5 assists per game.

The Mavericks and their fans are no doubt looking forward to the game, with the team riding a three-game win-streak—tying their longest of the season. Several promotions have already been announced by the university, including a blackout.

Back in December, the Mavericks dropped a 15-point decision at South Dakota State, despite holding Wolters to 13 points. They'll be hoping to feed off of what should be a fantastic atmosphere and keep Thursday's game much closer while trying to contain Wolters.

Omaha center John Karhoff (pictured) will be key to that task. He'll need to reproduce his 17 point, 10 rebound effort he turned in during the Maverick's 83-75 Bracketbusters win over North Dakota.

Guard Justin Simmons finished with 20 points during that contest—reaching that milestone for the 10th time this season. Along with fellow guard Jacques Coleman, there is a good chance he'll be matched up with Wolters on and off throughout the night.

The game will also give the Maverick basketball program a chance to showcase its new home -- The Ralston Arena -- in front of what could be the largest crowd to see a basketball game there since it opened late last year. 

Tip off is set for 7 pm Thursday. The game can be streamed on 1620 AM, The Zone.