This bill is a legislative commemoration recognizing the Howard Tigers as the 2024 Class B boys basketball state champions. The commemoration highlights the significance of this victory, marking sixty years since the team last won a state title. Under the leadership of head coach Nick Koepsell, the Tigers showcased their talent and dedication throughout the season, finishing with a 20-3 record and qualifying for the state tournament as the fifth seed. They achieved notable victories, including defeating the fourth-seeded Wessington Springs Spartans and the top-seeded White River Tigers to reach the finals.
In a thrilling championship game against the defending champion De Smet Bulldogs, the Howard Tigers led for most of the match but faced a challenge when the Bulldogs tied the game with a last-second three-pointer, forcing overtime. Demonstrating resilience and skill, the Tigers ultimately triumphed over the Bulldogs with a final score of 60-55, solidifying their status as champions. The bill concludes with a formal commemoration by the One Hundredth Legislature of the State of South Dakota, honoring the achievements of the Howard Tigers.