Maȟpíya Lúta completed an undefeated regular season and enters the postseason ranked No. 1 in the state, while also securing its third consecutive Black Hills Conference Championship. The accomplishment comes in one of the toughest leagues in western South Dakota, featuring three Class AA programs along with perennial contenders St. Thomas More and Rapid City Christian.
The team’s success has been driven by balanced scoring, defensive pressure, and strong leadership throughout the lineup. Senior guard Ashlan Carlow-Blount has led the way statistically, averaging 17.8 points, 8.4 rebounds, 5.9 assists, and 5.3 steals per game.
Senior Shania Ferguson has provided another consistent scoring option, averaging 14.3 points per game, while forward Mya Mills adds 9.0 points per game along with strong defensive production.
Inside, Jayden Standing Soldier has anchored the paint with 5.4 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game, while sophomore Peyton Knife continues to grow into a key role, contributing over 4 rebounds per contest. A major piece of Maȟpíya Lúta’s defensive identity is led by Dottie Mesteth and supported by a speedy crew in Tahca Zephier, Layla Janis, and freshman Josephine Haas.
With the regular season complete, Maȟpíya Lúta now turns its focus to postseason play. After opening-round action, they will face Saint Francis in the second round of the playoffs. The matchup presents a familiar opponent, but the stakes rise as the team begins its postseason run.