A LEGISLATIVE COMMEMORATION honoring the accomplishments of University of South Dakota women's basketball player Josie Hill.

WHEREAS, Josie Hill of Rapid City has distinguished herself as an outstanding basketball player, having earned a reputation as a center who can score, rebound, and block shots at a high level; and

WHEREAS, Josie starred at Rapid City Central High School, where she set the school record for career blocked shots, led the Cobblers to the state basketball tournament, and was named to the Class AA all-state first team her senior year; and

WHEREAS, upon graduating high school, Josie played for three years at Chicago State University, where she set the single-game and single-season records for blocked shots, and had the seventh highest blocks per game in NCAA Division 1 Women's Basketball during the 2023-24 season; and

WHEREAS, Josie transferred to the University of South Dakota for the 2025-26 season, providing the Coyotes with a consistent and intimidating post-presence, recording her one thousandth career point, and helping the Coyotes to a 22-8 record and third-place finish in the Summit League; and

WHEREAS, Josie is an enrolled member of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate and, through her commitment to academic and athletic excellence, and community service, has become a visible Native American role model who inspires Indigenous youth to pursue excellence;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT COMMEMORATED, by the One Hundred First Legislature of the State of South Dakota, that Josie Hill is recognized for her outstanding accomplishments and commitment to service in her community and this state.