The Drury Lady Panthers are firmly in the GLVC hunt, posting a 10–6 overall record and a 7–2 mark in conference play. Head Coach Kaci Bailey emphasized that while the standings matter, consistency, especially on the mental side,  remains the program’s top priority. Following a recent road loss, the team turned to film study and accountability, focusing on habits that translate in a league where every night presents a different challenge.

That challenge is magnified in the GLVC, a conference Coach Bailey described as both deep and unforgiving. Matchups against teams like Maryville, Lewis, and UMSL demand precision and toughness, with little margin for error. The postseason picture adds another layer, as only the top eight teams qualify for the GLVC Tournament, which will be hosted at UMSL this year. Coach Bailey acknowledged the ongoing debate around tournament expansion, balancing competitive opportunity with financial and logistical realities.

🎧 Hear the full conversation with Drury Head Coach Kaci Bailey:

Individual growth has been a major storyline, highlighted by Sara Mendel’s emergence as a confident scorer and dominant rebounder. Once a hesitant freshman, the junior has become a focal point for opposing defenses. Rhi Gibbons’ rise has been just as impressive, evolving from a high school role player and potential walk-on into a First-Team All-GLVC performer, consistently producing in double figures and embodying the power of belief and sustained work.

Despite their success, the Lady Panthers remain a young roster, leaning heavily on freshmen and sophomores, a promising sign for the program’s future with most of the team set to return. Beyond the court, the Panthers continue to strengthen their community ties through upcoming home game promotions, including a Teddy Bear Toss benefiting CoxHealth Women & Children’s Hospital and the Rebound Foundation Game supporting victims of domestic violence. Under Coach Kaci Bailey, Drury isn’t just building wins, they’re building confidence, connection, and culture.