(This is another in a continuing series of previewing basketball teams participating in the 2021 Lakota Nation Invitational)

By Rich Winter

With a deep and experienced roster returning Laura Big Crow’s Lakota Tech girls enter the Lakota Nation Invitational as the No. 2 seed. 

A year ago, with COVID-19 restrictions in place, and their gym not finished, the Tatanka played every game on the road. Despite traveling to all four corners of South Dakota to play, Lakota Tech finished the year 12-7, bowing out to Hill City in region play. 

“We are working hard in the gym and our team is hungry for a state title,” Big Crow said. “We want to take it one game at a time this year and be one of the toughest defensive teams in the state.”

Big Crow notes she is returning her entire team from last season while adding a few transfers to the roster. 

Returning seniors: Tobi Carlow, Moriah Morrisette, Tawny Rodriguez

Returning juniors: Shayla Bravo, Melina Shangreaux, 6-foot-1, Taylor Byerley and Hannah Risse

Returning sophomores: Ashlyn Morrisette, Vilique Fallis

Returning freshman: Jodene Hunter

Transfer: senior Kaydence Loafer

Transfers: Juniors Mya Dreamer, Shyleigh Richard, Jordan Waln and 8th-grader Mya Mills. 

“We are coming into the season off a tremendously successful summer program,” Big Crow said. 

Leading scorers from 2020-2021: Shayla Bravo, Tobi Carlow, Tawny Rodriguez, Moriah Morrisette, Melina Shangreaux, Jodene Hunter, Shyleigh Richard, Mya Dreamer, Vilique Fallis, Ashlyn Morrisette, Taylor Byerley, Hannah Risse.

“Being able to go deep into the bench is going to be a huge advantage for our team this season. We are excited and look forward to a great season,” she said. 

Lakota Tech opens Lakota Nation Invitational play on Dec. 15 vs. Little Wound. The Tatanka open bracket play against Dupree.