The Dodge City Lady Demons began their 2025–26 season with a week full of energy, enthusiasm, and clear progress under new head coach Danny Smith. In his first two games leading the program, Smith guided the Lady Demons to a strong season-opening win over Wichita West and followed with a competitive, hard-fought matchup against Spearville that highlighted the team’s toughness and potential.
Lady Demons 67, Wichita West 36
December 2, 2025
Coach Danny Smith’s first night on the sidelines could not have been scripted much better. The Lady Demons opened the season with confidence, poise, and a fast pace, rolling to a 67–36 victory over Wichita West.
Senior standout Piper Mellinger led the charge with a powerful performance—24 points and 8 rebounds—setting the tone for the team’s offensive rhythm. Kale Culwell added 13 points, knocking down key shots throughout the night, while Emily Gutierrez scored 9 points and repeatedly attacked the basket.
One of the brightest highlights of the opener was the Lady Demons’ defense. Dodge City forced 38 turnovers, turning their pressure into 40 points, showcasing an identity built on energy and effort. The team also held its own on the boards, matching Wichita West with 39 rebounds and generating 16 second-chance points.
Leading 34–17 at halftime, Dodge City finished the game with authority—including a dominant 20–2 fourth quarter—to secure Coach Smith’s first win as a Lady Demon.
Spearville 42, Lady Demons 37
December 6, 2025 – Dodge City
In their second outing of opening week, the Lady Demons once again showed competitive fire and resilience in a close 42–37 game against a talented Spearville squad.
Senior guard Emily Gutierrez delivered a standout performance, scoring 20 points, including three makes from beyond the arc. Her confidence and versatility kept Dodge City’s offense moving throughout the night.
Piper Mellinger added 7 points and 6 rebounds, and Emma Bell made an impact with 5 points and 7 rebounds, helping the Lady Demons stay strong on the glass and in defensive transitions.
The team’s defensive consistency remained a positive theme, as Dodge City forced 21 Spearville turnovers and recorded 44 defensive stops—matching the Lady Lancers and demonstrating the grit Coach Smith has emphasized early in the season.
Despite shots not falling at their usual pace, the Lady Demons continued to battle late into the fourth quarter, keeping the game within reach and showing impressive poise for early-season play.
The Lady Demons return to the court on Friday, December 12th in Manhattan and then turn around and play in Junction City on Saturday.
