Maȟpíya Luta Secures 4th State Appearance in 5 Years, Finishing 6th Place
Maȟpíya Luta concluded their season with a fourth state appearance in the last five years, ultimately securing a respectable 6th place finish. The team faced tough competition throughout the state tournament.
Game One: Mahpiya Luta vs Vermillion
It was low-scoring opener against Vermillion, both teams grappled with shooting challenges, Mahpiya Luta struggled to score shooting at a 25.8% field goal rate. Ashlan Blount led all scorers with 16 points, complemented by four rebounds. Jodene Hunter’s contributed 12 points, four steals, and three blocks, however it was not enough as Vermillion was victorious 41-37.
Game Two: Mahpiya Luta vs Mount Vernon/Plankinton Titans
Mahpiya Luta was back to regular season form in the second game, securing a 62-41 victory over the Mount Vernon/Plankinton Titans. The team took an early lead with a 25-8 advantage in the first quarter, propelled by Jodene Hunter’s 13 quick points. Despite a noteworthy performance by MVP’s Emilee Fox, Mahpiya Luta maintained control and expanded their lead to 46-25 at halftime.
Game Three: Mahpiya Luta vs Flandreau Fliers
In the final game against the Flandreau Fliers, Mahpiya Luta faced an extremly tall team. The trio of Ashlan Blount, Jodene Hunter, and Lunderman each contributed 10 points, with Blount achieving a double-double with 11 rebounds. Hunter showcased her versatility with three assists and four steals. In the end the size of Flandrea wore down Maȟpíya Lúta as their season concluded with a loss in the consolation championship 56-41
Overall Season Achievements:
Ashlan Carlow-Blount’s exceptional performance throughout the tournament earned her a place on the All-Tournament Team. As the season concludes, Maȟpíya Luta boasts an impressive 23-2 record, capping off the year as Black Hills Conference Champions and Lakota Nation Invitational Champions. Maȟpíya Lúta has solidified its position as a formidable force in South Dakota high school girls basketball.