RANGELY | Last week, the Rangely High School girls’ basketball team hit the road to face the West Grand Mustangs. Entering the game with a 19-0 record for the 2024-25 season, the Lady Panthers secured a 51-35 victory, improving their record to 20-0.
Senior Miah Wren led the charge, scoring 20 points while adding six steals and five assists. Wren currently ranks first in multiple categories in the 2A/1A Western Slope League, leading in three-pointers made (64), points per game (20.6), field goals made (145), and free throws made (57).
Fellow senior Ashlynn Ducey also contributed significantly, recording four points, seven rebounds, and five assists. Ducey has been a defensive force, tallying three or more steals in each of her last 15 games. She currently leads the league in assists per game, averaging 5.6.
Head coach Jimmie Mergelman credited leadership and teamwork for the team’s success.
“The key to success this season has been strong and effective leadership. We have set clear goals, and all the girls know their roles and contribute to the success of the team,” Mergelman said.
The Lady Panthers’ defense played a crucial role in the victory, limiting West Grand’s Makaila Gifford to 11 points and Luci Bruchez to eight points and 10 rebounds. The win also marked the team’s 14th consecutive road victory dating back to last season. Over that stretch, they have averaged 61.3 points per game.
A few days later, Rangely returned home to host the Grand Valley Cardinals. The Lady Panthers, now 20-0, looked to extend their streak, while the Cardinals aimed to pull off an upset. However, Rangely dominated with a 54-15 win.
Wren once again led the way, scoring 17 points and recording six steals. She has now registered at least two steals in 31 consecutive games dating back to last season. The victory pushed the Lady Panthers’ record to 21-0 and extended their home winning streak to 19 games, with the team averaging 62.5 points per game in that span.
“Every game is a new one for us, especially against teams we haven’t faced yet this season. The girls are excited and ready for the challenge. We prepare, watch film, strategize, and make a game plan each week, then execute,” Mergelman said.
Rangely will conclude its regular season Friday at home against Cotopaxi. The Lady Panthers will look to cap off an undefeated season, while the Pirates will aim to hand them their first loss. Mergelman emphasized the team’s dedication and focus.
“Our biggest focus is just on us and doing what we do, which has led to our success this season. The girls put in a lot of work in the offseason as well as during the season to get to this point and are ready to make a deep postseason run,” she said.
Panther fans are encouraged to support the team in their final regular-season game on Feb. 21.
