No final score can change how incredibly proud we are of the Mahpiya Luta girls basketball team and cheerleaders, who both delivered unforgettable performances at the 2025 South Dakota State A Basketball Tournament.
In a heart-wrenching one-point loss to Sioux Falls Christian on a buzzer-beater in the Championship game, the girls basketball team closed out a nearly perfect season. But their legacy goes far beyond the scoreboard. With unmatched heart, skill, and resilience, these young women played for each other, for their school, and for their Oyate. On and off the court, they carried the strength, pride, and beauty of the Oglala Lakota with grace and dignity.
Ashlan Carlow-Blount (Junior) and Jodene Big Crow-Hunter (Senior) were named to the All-Tournament Team, a reflection of their dedication, leadership, and outstanding play throughout the tournament. “To be good is hard!” said Head Girls Basketball Coach Dr. Matt Rama, echoing the commitment and perseverance it takes to compete at this level.
The celebration doesn’t stop at the hardwood.
The Mahpiya Luta cheerleaders brought energy, spirit, and enthusiasm every step of the way, culminating in the highest honor a cheer team can receive—the 2025 Spirit of Six Award 🏆🔥. This prestigious recognition honors teams that demonstrate exceptional sportsmanship, spirit, and teamwork. This award was a nice finish to an already successful season, the cheer team also won the Best Cheer Team at the Lakota Nation Invitational at the start of the basketball season!
A huge Wophila thaŋka to Coach Nevra Murdock, whose leadership, dedication, and passion helped guide the cheer team to this incredible accomplishment. Her commitment to excellence and spirit is evident in every performance.
This year’s State A tournament showed that success isn’t just measured in wins or losses—it’s measured in pride, in unity, and in the way a community comes together through sport.
To the girls basketball team, to the cheerleaders, and to the coaches behind them: Wophila thaŋka. You’ve made Mahpiya Luta proud.