De Smet's Damon Wilkinson to play basketball for South Dakota State

BROOKINGS — Another De Smet High School boys basketball standout is continue his playing career at South Dakota State University.

Damon Wilkinson, a 6-foot-10 senior center, announced Tuesday his plans on Twitter that he was grateful to receive and accept a scholarship from the Jackrabbits.

Wilkinson has been a key factor on De Smet teams that have captured the last three state Class B championships.

This past winter, he averaged 22 points and 13 rebounds per game for a Bulldogs' team that went 23-3 and became the state's first Class B team to win three consecutive state titles during the three-class system.

More: https://mobile.twitter.com/DamonWilkie/status/1640797680568872963

He finished his career with 1,188 points (sixth all-time at De Smet) and 783 rebounds (first all-time at De Smet). Wilkinson earned Class B All-State second team honors as a junior and has earned all-tournament honors in the last three state B tournament.

More: Baker's Dozen: 13 area boys basketball standout named to All-State teams

"Damon has played so well for us in big games. He's a tough kid and so many nights he toughed it out and played all 32 minutes. He is always a great competitor in practice and in games," said De Smet head coach Jeff Gruenhagen. "Damon really matured into a leader this season and that really helped us to get the top. He will be remembered as one of the best ever to wear a Bulldog uniform."

Wilkinson joined former teammate Kalen Garry, who redshirted as a freshmen this winter for the Jackrabbits.

Follow Watertown Public Opinion sports reporter Roger Merriam on Twitter @PO_Sports.

This article originally appeared on Watertown Public Opinion: Wilkinson joins former teammate Garry with Jackrabbits.