<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" ?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:s="https://drurypanthers.com/services/xml_schema/story" xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/"><channel><title>Drury University Athletics</title><link>https://drurypanthers.com/rss.aspx?full=true</link><description>Latest news items for Drury University Athletics</description><atom:link href="https://drurypanthers.com/rss?full=true" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /><language>en-us</language><ttl>60</ttl><item><title>Men's Basketball Completes 2026-27 Schedule</title><link>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/26/mens-basketball-announces-2026-27-schedule.aspx</link><guid>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/26/mens-basketball-announces-2026-27-schedule.aspx</guid><category>Men's Basketball</category><s:teaser><![CDATA[Drury men's basketball head coach Chris Foster announced the Panthers' 2026-27 schedule Thursday. DU's 27-game regular-season slate will feature 16 home dates at O'Reilly Family Event Center this winter, including a total of six games versus 2026 NCAA Division II postseason qualifiers.]]></s:teaser><description><![CDATA[<img alt="Thomas" src="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&image_path=/images/2025/11/21/25_Thomas01.jpg" /><br /><br /><p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>SPRINGFIELD, Mo. —</strong> Drury men's basketball head coach <strong>Chris Foster</strong> announced the Panthers' 2026-27 schedule Thursday. DU's 27-game regular-season slate will feature 16 home dates at O'Reilly Family Event Center this winter, including a total of six games versus 2026 NCAA Division II postseason qualifiers.<br />
<br />
The Panthers will open the new season with five straight home games, including a pair of two-day classics in at The 'O in the month of November. Drury kicks off the season by hosting the Tip-Off Challenge, Nov. 13-14, squaring off against Union in its debut contest before facing Harding the following day as part of a four-team classic that also includes fellow Great Lakes Valley Conference foe Southwest Baptist.<br />
<br />
Drury will welcome Central Bible Univeristy to The 'O for a non-conference game on Nov. 17, then once again hosts the DoubleTree by Hilton Thanksgiving Classic, which will include DU contests against a pair of MIAA squads in Pittsburg State (Nov. 24) and <span style="color:#000000;">2026 NCAA Regional qualifier Central Missouri (Nov. 25)</span>. <br />
<br />
Drury will open GLVC play the following week with a road contest against defending conference tournament champion William Jewell (Nov. 30) in Liberty, Mo. The Panthers return to Springfield for three consecutive home contests, beginning with conference games against 2026 GLVC regular-season champion Rockhurst (Dec. 2). DU then hosts Illinois Springfield (Dec. 5), before taking a break from league play with back-to-back non-conference games with Ozark Christian (Dec. 14) and Arkansas Tech (Dec. 20) leading into a 13-day holiday break.<br />
<br />
The Panthers return to action with GLVC road contests against McKendree (Jan. 2) and Missouri S&T (Jan. 7), before returning to Springfield for a Jan. 9 game against Truman State. Next, a trip to Illinois Springfield (Jan. 13) precedes the Panthers' longest home stand of the conference season, which opens with a Jan. 16 matchup with Missouri-St. Louis. Home dates with Southwest Baptist (Jan. 18) and McKendree (Jan. 20) follow, before the Panthers trek to Indianapolis for their final GLVC matchup with the Greyhounds on Jan. 23.<br />
<br />
Back-to-back home games against Lewis (Jan. 30) and Missouri S&T (Feb. 3) open the final month of the regular season. The Panthers return to the road on Feb. 6 with a conference game against Quincy, then travel to Kansas City for their return contest with Rockhurst (Feb. 10).<br />
<br />
DU will wrap up its home schedule with matchups against Upper Iowa (Feb. 13) and William Jewell (Feb. 17), before playing its final three regular-season games on the road. The Panthers open the stretch against Maryville (Feb. 20) in St. Louis, before trips to Southwest Baptist (Feb. 24) and Lincoln (Feb. 27) round out the GLVC slate.<br />
<br />
The GLVC Men's Basketball Championship Tournament will be held March 4-7 in St. Joseph, Mo., before NCAA Division II Regional play gets underway the following week (March 12-16). The tournament continues with the Elite Eight, March 23-27 in Fort Wayne, Ind.<br />
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The Panthers are coming off their third consecutive winning season under Foster, who led DU to a 17-14 campaign and runner-up finish in the GLVC Tournament in 2025-26. <br />
<br />
Drury men's basketball 2026-27 season tickets are scheduled to go on sale in August.<br />
<br />
<strong>FOLLOW THE </strong><strong>PANTHERS</strong><br />
For all the latest information on Drury men's basketball, visit </span><a href="https://drurypanthers.com/sports/mens-basketball"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>D</strong></span></a><a href="https://drurypanthers.com/sports/mens-basketball"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>ruryPanthers</strong></span></a><a href="https://drurypanthers.com/sports/mens-basketball"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>.com</strong></span></a><span style="color:#000000;">. For up-to-the-minute updates, follow the Panthers on </span><a href="https://x.com/drurymbb"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>X</strong></span></a><span style="color:#000000;"> and </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/drurymbb"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Instagram</strong></span></a><span style="color:#000000;">.</span></p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong><em>#OneDrury</em></strong></span></p>]]></description><media:thumbnail url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_system&amp;image_path=/images/2025/11/21/25_Thomas01.jpg" /><media:content url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2025/11/21/25_Thomas01.jpg"><media:title>Thomas</media:title></media:content><enclosure url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2025/11/21/25_Thomas01.jpg" length="1" type="image/jpg" /><pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2026 15:45:00 CST</pubDate><s:sport_id>4</s:sport_id><s:story_id>16661</s:story_id></item><item><title>Drury Volleyball Announces 2026 Signing Class</title><link>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/26/drury-volleyball-announces-2026-signing-class.aspx</link><guid>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/26/drury-volleyball-announces-2026-signing-class.aspx</guid><category>Volleyball</category><s:teaser><![CDATA[Drury volleyball head coach Kelly Richardson has finalized the Panthers' 2026 signing class, which includes three transfers and five prep standouts who will join the DU program in August.]]></s:teaser><description><![CDATA[<img alt="NSD Volleyball" src="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&image_path=/images/2026/6/25/Website_Cover.png" /><br /><br /><span style="color:#000000;"></span><span style="color:#000000;"><b>SPRINGFIELD, Mo. —</b> Drury volleyball head coach </span><strong><a href="https://drurypanthers.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/coaches/kelly-richardson/3397"><span style="color:#000000;">Kelly Richardson</span></a><span style="color:#000000;"> </span></strong><span style="color:#000000;">has finalized the Panthers' 2026 signing class, which includes three transfers and five prep standouts who will join the DU program in August.</span><span style="color:#000000;"><br />
<br />
Entering her debut season as Drury's head coach, Richardson and the Panthers will welcome freshmen <b>Bella Asante </b>(Camdenton, Mo.), <strong>Lucy Hafer</strong> (West Plains, Mo.), <strong>Gwen Kubik</strong> (Nixa, Mo.), <b>Falon Stroup</b> (Liberty Hill, Texas) and <b>Taylor Wood </b>(Nixa, Mo.), as well as sophomore transfer<b> Isy Purrington</b> (Eagan, Minn.) and junior transfers <strong>Reagan Baade</strong> (Springfield, Mo.) and <b>Sydney Walker</b> (Decatur, Ill.).<br />
 <br />
"We couldn't be more excited about this incoming class," Richardson stated. "Our returners have set a solid tone and expectations for the work ethic and culture that is expected within our program, and every single player in this class compliments that mentality. We look forward to having everyone on the court together and getting to work in August."<br />
<br />
<b>Bella Asante</b><br />
<em>S | 5-10 | Fr. | Camdenton, Mo. | Camdenton HS</em></span>

<ul>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Asante joins the Panthers after completing a standout prep career at Camdenton (Mo.) High School, where she was a four-time all-conference and all-district performer.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Earned Missouri Class 4 All-State recognition, as well as Central Missouri Athletic Conference (CMAC) Offensive Player of the Year honors as a senior in 2025.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Picked up her fourth consecutive Academic All-State nod in 2025 and was named to the AVCA's All-America watch list.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Also starred in track and field for the Lakers, capturing the CMAC title in the triple jump as a senior.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Selected as a finalist for the 2025-26 Springfield Sports Commission Award for volleyball.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color:#000000;"><em>Richardson on Asante:</em><br />
"Bella is a true setter, and leader on the floor. She is the definition of a culture kid and understands the importance of rallying those around her in an inspiring way. Her ability to pair her athleticism along with her ball location will make a big impact on our program. Her attitude and drive are contagious, and we are so happy she chose Drury volleyball to continue her athletic career." <br />
 <br />
<b>Reagan Baade</b><br />
<em>DS/L | 5-8 | Jr. | Springfield, Mo. | Missouri State | Ozark HS</em></span>

<ul>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Baade joins the Drury program as a junior transfer for the 2026 season after competing two years for cross-town Missouri State.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Appeared in 29 matches during her MSU career and was named to the Conference USA Commissioner's Honor Roll in both 2024-25 and 2025-26.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Earned AVCA All-America honors as senior at Ozark (Mo.) High School after racking up 346 kills, 274 digs, 20 blocks and 37 aces for the Tigers. </span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Helped lead the Tigers to a 29-6 record and Central Ozark Conference championship as a senior.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Earned Missouri Class 5 All-State recognition as a junior and senior, as well as Academic All-State recognition in each of her final three prep seasons.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Notched a pair of first-team All-COC honors and three Class 5 All-District citations and received AVCA All-Region recognition in 2023 as well.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color:#000000;"><em>Richardson on Baade:</em><br />
"Reagan brings a wealth of defensive experience to our floor this fall. She has spent two years training at a high level collegiately and also comes from a local powerhouse high school where she competed offensively as a six-rotation outside hitter. Her attack mentality in a defensive role brings another level of maturity to our defense this fall. We are excited to welcome Reagan to our Panther family."<br />
 <br />
<strong>Lucy Hafer</strong><br />
<em>S/DS | 5-7 | Fr. | West Plains, Mo. | West Plains HS</em></span>

<ul>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">A multi-sport standout for West Plains (Mo.) High School, Hafer will also compete on the hardwood for the Drury Lady Panthers.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Turned in a record-setting prep career for West Plains, where she was a three-time all-conference and all-district performer for the Zizzers.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Holds WPHS career (2,672), season (1,080) and match (50) records for assists.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Was a four-time Academic All-State selection, as well as a Missouri Class 4 All-State honoree as a senior, when she helped the Zizzers to a 2025 Class 4 district title.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Named a finalist for Springfield Sports Commission's volleyball player of the year honor in 2025-26.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color:#000000;"><em>Richardson on Hafer:</em><br />
"Lucy is another player who is able to play various roles and brings a wealth of experience to our floor. She is a strong defensive player, with setting experience as well, and has a very high volleyball IQ. Her ability to read and think ahead of the play will be a huge advantage for our program. We are so excited that Lucy will be joining our Drury family this fall." <br />
 <br />
<strong>Gwen Kubik</strong><br />
<em>OH | 6-1 | Fr. | Nixa, Mo. | Nixa HS</em></span>

<ul>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Kubik joins the Panthers following a standout prep careeer at nearby Nixa (Mo.) High School.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Led the Eagles to conference and district titles as a senior, as well as a third-place Missouri Class 5 finish as part of a 29-10 senior campaign.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Earned all-conference, all-district and Class 5 All-State honors during her career as an Eagle.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Selected as a finalist for the 2025-26 Springfield Sports Commission Award for volleyball.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color:#000000;"><em>Richardson on Kubik:</em><br />
"Gwen is an explosive outside hitter, who will bring size and power to our front row this season. Her ability to impact the floor both offensively and defensively will be a huge asset for our program this fall. She brings high-level playing experience to our program and has been a part of an extremely successful local high school program. We are so excited that she has chosen Drury as her home."<br />
 <br />
<b>Isy Purrington</b><br />
<em>OH | 6-0 | So. | Eagan, Minn. | MSU Denver | Eagan HS</em></span>

<ul>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Purrington comes to Springfield as a sophomore transfer after playing her freshman season for the 2026 NCAA D-II national champion Metropolitan State University of Denver.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Saw action in four contests as a freshman for the Roadrunners as part of a club that finished 32-3 and won its last 23 matches of the year en route to the national title.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Was a four-year varsity performer for Eagan (Minn.) High School, where she led her team to a state tournament appearance with a club-best 336 kills.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Served as a two-year team captain for Eagan and competed in track and field as well, earning Minnesota All-State honors as a sophomore.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color:#000000;"><em>Richardson on Purrington:</em><br />
"Isy brings experience on both pins and can take a big swing from either position. She is long and will be able to make an impact both offensively and defensively at the net. Her time with a national championship team this past year, as well as playing with a club powerhouse in high school, will bring another level of maturity to our floor. We couldn't be more excited that Isy chose to make Drury her home. ."<br />
 <br />
<b>Falon Stroup</b><br />
<em>MB | 6-1 | Fr. | Liberty Hill, Texas | Liberty Hill HS</em></span>

<ul>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Stroup joins the Panthers after turning in a noteworthy career as a multi-sport standout in volleyball and basketball for Liberty Hill (Texas) High School.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Led her club to regional semifinal appearances in 2024 and 2025.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Named to all-district teams as both a junior and senior for the Panthers, logging the second-highest hitting percentage in her district in 2025.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Picked up Academic All-State recognition in both volleyball and basketball in 2025-26.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Also earned a pair of all-district nods on the hardwood for Liberty Hill, helping the Panthers to a state finals berth in 2025.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color:#000000;"><em>Richardson on Stroup:</em><br />
"We first saw Falon this spring at USAV Nationals, and her competitiveness and explosiveness caught our attention immediately. She is a true middle who works hard to transition and be an offensive option every time. Her energy and drive are contagious and will be a huge addition to our middle position this fall. We are so happy she has chosen to continue her career at Drury.."<br />
<br />
<b>Sydney Walker</b><br />
<em>OH | 5-8 | Jr. | Decatur, Ill. | Lake Land College | Decatur HS</em></span>

<ul>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Walker joins the Drury program as a junior transfer after competing for Lake Land College her first two colleigate seasons.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Was a two-time all-conference performer at Lake Land, as well as an All-Region XXIV pick in 2025.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Helped lead the Lakers to a 21-12 season mark and region title, averaging 3.35 kills/set, as a sophomore.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Prior to her time at Lake Land, Walker concluded a standout prep career at Eisenhower High School in Decatur, Ill. </span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color:#000000;"><em>Richardson on Walker:</em><br />
"Sydney brings so much competitive fire to our outside position this fall. She has the ability to move the ball around with a great shot selection, and power through the ball when needed as well. She works hard in transition every single time and is such an explosive player. She is a true six-rotation threat and will help bring more experience to our front and back court. We are thrilled that Sydney will be joining our program this fall."<br />
 <br />
<strong>Taylor Wood</strong><br />
<em>RS/OH | 5-10 | Fr. | Nixa, Mo. | Nixa HS</em></span>

<ul>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Another product of local prep power Nixa High School, Wood joins the Drury program after helping the Eagles to a third-place Missouri Class 5 finish last fall.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Earned Class 5 All-State honors, as well as her third consecutive all-district nod, as a senior in 2025. </span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Named to All-COC teams as a junior and senior, as well as AVCA All-America honorable mention recognition in 2025.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Logged four triple-doubles for the Eagles, completing her prep career with 670 kills, 951 assists and 128 aces.</span></li>
	<li><span style="color:#000000;">Also competed in soccer and basketball for Nixa.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color:#000000;"><em>Richardson on Wood:</em><br />
"Taylor is a true jack of all trades. She has the ability to swing on either pin, impact the floor defensively, and also helped lead her high school team to a State Final Four appearance in a setting role. She helps make our floor more versatile in many different areas and brings an exciting competitive edge as well. We are thrilled to have Taylor as a Panther."<br />
 <br />
Coming off a 17-13 season in 2025, Drury will open the 2026 season Aug. 28, when it takes on Minot State to kick off the Drury Invitational.<br />
 <br />
<strong>FOLLOW THE PANTHERS</strong><br />
For all the latest information on Drury volleyball, visit </span><a href="https://drurypanthers.com/sports/womens-volleyball"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>D</strong></span></a><a href="https://drurypanthers.com/sports/womens-volleyball"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>ruryPanthers</strong></span></a><a href="https://drurypanthers.com/sports/womens-volleyball"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>.com</strong></span></a><span style="color:#000000;">. For up-to-the-minute updates, follow the Panthers on </span><a href="https://x.com/DruryVB"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>X</strong></span></a><span style="color:#000000;"> and </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/druryuniversity_volleyball/"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Instagram</strong></span></a><span style="color:#000000;">.<br />
 </span>

<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#000000;"><em><strong>#OneDrury</strong></em></span></div>]]></description><media:thumbnail url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_system&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/25/Website_Cover.png" /><media:content url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/25/Website_Cover.png"><media:title>NSD Volleyball</media:title></media:content><enclosure url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/25/Website_Cover.png" length="1" type="image/jpg" /><pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2026 09:00:00 CST</pubDate><s:sport_id>17</s:sport_id><s:story_id>16662</s:story_id></item><item><title>47 Panthers Receive GLVC Council of Presidents’ Academic Excellence Award</title><link>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/25/baseball-47-panthers-receive-glvc-council-of-presidents-academic-excellence-award.aspx</link><guid>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/25/baseball-47-panthers-receive-glvc-council-of-presidents-academic-excellence-award.aspx</guid><category>Baseball, Men's Basketball, Men's Cross Country, Men's Golf, Men's Soccer, Men's Swim &amp; Dive, Men's Tennis, Women's Basketball, Women's Cross Country, Women's Golf, Women's Soccer, Softball, Women's Swim &amp; Dive, Women's Tennis, Volleyball, Men's Track and Field, Women's Track and Field, Wrestling, STUNT</category><s:teaser><![CDATA[]]></s:teaser><description><![CDATA[<img alt="Workman SBU" src="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&image_path=/images/2026/6/25/D80_2813.jpg" /><br /><br />]]></description><media:thumbnail url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_system&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/25/D80_2813.jpg" /><media:content url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/25/D80_2813.jpg"><media:title>Workman SBU</media:title></media:content><enclosure url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/25/D80_2813.jpg" length="1" type="image/jpg" /><pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 11:24:00 CST</pubDate><s:sport_id>3</s:sport_id><s:story_id>16660</s:story_id></item><item><title>Lady Panthers Release 2026-27 Schedule</title><link>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/24/womens-basketball-lady-panthers-release-2026-27-schedule.aspx</link><guid>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/24/womens-basketball-lady-panthers-release-2026-27-schedule.aspx</guid><category>Women's Basketball</category><s:teaser><![CDATA[SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Drury women's basketball head coach Kaci Bailey announced the Lady Panthers' 2026-27 schedule that includes 28 regular-season games, including 14 contests inside O'Reilly Family Event Center.]]></s:teaser><description><![CDATA[<img alt="gibbonsmaryvilleglvc" src="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&image_path=/images/2026/6/24/55134834558_b5444efd2d_o.jpg" /><br /><br /><strong>SPRINGFIELD, Mo. –</strong> Drury women's basketball head coach Kaci Bailey announced the Lady Panthers' 2026-27 schedule that includes 28 regular-season games, including 14 contests inside O'Reilly Family Event Center.<br />
 <br />
The Lady Panthers will begin their 27th season with a preseason training trip to Puerto Rico in mid-October.<br />
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The regular season opens in Springfield with the GLVC/MIAA Crossover, hosted at The O'. The four-team event begins on Nov. 13 with a neutral-site matchup between Southwest Baptist and Pittsburg State. Drury opens its season later that day against national tournament qualifier Fort Hays State. The crossover concludes with a women's basketball doubleheader featuring Southwest Baptist vs. Fort Hays State, followed by the Lady Panthers taking on Pittsburg State at home.<br />
 <br />
The GLVC/MIAA Crossover launches a five-game home stand to start the season. Following the event, Drury hosts Arkansas-Fort Smith (Nov. 18) for the annual Hiland Dairy Kids Day Game.<br />
 <br />
Drury will then host the 8th Annual Oasis Hotel & Convention Center Thanksgiving Classic, Nov. 24-25. This year's field includes Union and Saginaw Valley State, with Truman State serving as the second GLVC representative.<br />
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GLVC play begins on Nov. 30 with a road trip to William Jewell. The Lady Panthers return to O'Reilly Family Event Center for their first home conference games against Rockhurst (Dec. 2) and Illinois Springfield (Dec. 5).<br />
 <br />
A five-game road stretch follows, beginning Dec. 12 at Northeastern State in Oklahoma. Drury then travels to Miami for the Barry Holiday Tournament, Dec. 18-19, where they will face the host Barry and Texas A&M-Kingsville to close out 2026.<br />
 <br />
The 2027 portion of the schedule opens with back-to-back GLVC road games at McKendree (Jan. 2) and Missouri S&T (Jan. 7).<br />
 <br />
After more than a month away from Springfield, the Lady Panthers return home on Jan. 9 to host Truman State in their first home game of the new year.<br />
 <br />
A key mid-January homestand awaits as Drury hosts GLVC regular-season champion Missouri-St. Louis on Jan. 16, followed by rival Southwest Baptist on Jan. 18.<br />
 <br />
Homecoming is set for Feb. 13, when both Drury basketball programs host Upper Iowa inside The O'.<br />
 <br />
The Lady Panthers will play their final home game of the regular season on Feb. 17 against William Jewell.<br />
 <br />
Drury closes the regular season with three straight road games: at Maryville on Feb. 20, at Southwest Baptist on Feb. 24, and at Lincoln on Feb. 27.<br />
 <br />
For the first time in league history, the GLVC Championship Tournament will be held in St. Joseph, Missouri, with the eight-team event scheduled for March 4-7 at the St. Joseph Civic Arena.<br />
 <br />
Bailey enters her fourth season leading the Lady Panthers following her third straight 20-win campaign. Drury returns all three of its All-GLVC selections - Sara Mendel, Rhi Gibbons, and Kaylee King - along with the entire starting lineup from last season, including Jazz Gray and Sage Stratton.<br />
 <br />
Season tickets for all Drury home basketball games will go on sale in early August.<br />
 <br />
<strong>FOLLOW THE LADY PANTHERS</strong><br />
For all the latest information on Drury athletics, please visit <a href="https://drurypanthers.com/sports/womens-basketball">drurypanthers.com</a>. For up-to-the-minute updates, follow the Panthers on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drurywbb/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://x.com/DULadyPanthers">X</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/drurywbb">Facebook</a>

<div style="text-align: center;"><em>#OneDrury</em></div>]]></description><media:thumbnail url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_system&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/24/55134834558_b5444efd2d_o.jpg" /><media:content url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/24/55134834558_b5444efd2d_o.jpg"><media:title>gibbonsmaryvilleglvc</media:title></media:content><enclosure url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/24/55134834558_b5444efd2d_o.jpg" length="1" type="image/jpg" /><pubDate>Wed, 24 Jun 2026 09:00:00 CST</pubDate><s:sport_id>10</s:sport_id><s:story_id>16658</s:story_id></item><item><title>64 Panthers Named GLVC Brother James Gaffney Distinguished Scholars</title><link>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/24/womens-basketball-64-panthers-named-glvc-brother-james-gaffney-distinguished-scholars.aspx</link><guid>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/24/womens-basketball-64-panthers-named-glvc-brother-james-gaffney-distinguished-scholars.aspx</guid><category>Baseball, Men's Basketball, Men's Cross Country, Men's Golf, Men's Soccer, Men's Swim &amp; Dive, Men's Tennis, Women's Basketball, Women's Cross Country, Women's Golf, Women's Soccer, Softball, Women's Swim &amp; Dive, Women's Tennis, Volleyball, Men's Track and Field, Women's Track and Field, Wrestling, STUNT</category><s:teaser><![CDATA[]]></s:teaser><description><![CDATA[<img alt="cookemaryville" src="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&image_path=/images/2026/3/29/JW_STUNT_0301-52.jpg" /><br /><br />]]></description><media:thumbnail url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_system&amp;image_path=/images/2026/3/29/JW_STUNT_0301-52.jpg" /><media:content url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/3/29/JW_STUNT_0301-52.jpg"><media:title>cookemaryville</media:title></media:content><enclosure url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/3/29/JW_STUNT_0301-52.jpg" length="1" type="image/jpg" /><pubDate>Wed, 24 Jun 2026 10:28:00 CST</pubDate><s:sport_id>10</s:sport_id><s:story_id>16659</s:story_id></item><item><title>Lake Country Soccer Complex Selected as Future Home of GLVC Soccer Championships</title><link>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/23/mens-soccer-lake-country-soccer-complex-selected-as-future-home-of-glvc-soccer-championships.aspx</link><guid>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/23/mens-soccer-lake-country-soccer-complex-selected-as-future-home-of-glvc-soccer-championships.aspx</guid><category>Men's Soccer, Women's Soccer</category><s:teaser><![CDATA[SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – The Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) has announced an agreement with Drury University and the Springfield Sports Commission to host the GLVC Men's and Women's Soccer Tournaments at Lake Country Soccer Complex in Springfield for the next three years, the conference announced Tuesday.]]></s:teaser><description><![CDATA[<img alt="Lake Country" src="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&image_path=/images/2026/4/21/2024-12-19-17-21-42-795.PNG" /><br /><br /><strong>SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – </strong>The Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) has announced an agreement with Drury University and the Springfield Sports Commission to host the GLVC Men's and Women's Soccer Tournaments at Lake Country Soccer Complex in Springfield for the next three years, the conference announced Tuesday.<br />
 <br />
Beginning with the upcoming 2026 season, Lake Country will not only serve as the home of Drury soccer but will also host postseason soccer. The three-year deal will bring four teams from each bracket to Springfield for the semifinal and championship rounds of the GLVC Men's and Women's Soccer Tournaments.<br />
 <br />
Lake Country Soccer Complex features a turf field installed in 2025 that is lined exclusively for soccer and includes dressing rooms, spectator seating, and ample parking. <br />
 <br />
"We are excited to partner with the GLVC and the Springfield Sports Commission to bring championship soccer to Springfield," Vice President and Director of Athletics Nyla Milleson said. "We believe Lake Country Soccer Complex and the Springfield community will create an outstanding environment for the GLVC Soccer Tournaments." <br />
 <br />
Last year's GLVC Soccer Tournaments were played at Creve Coeur Park Soccer Complex in St. Louis, where the Drury women's soccer team claimed its third GLVC Tournament championship. Creve Coeur Park hosted the GLVC Soccer Tournaments for the previous two seasons. <br />
 <br />
Drury women's soccer hosted the GLVC Tournament in 2021, while the men's program hosted the 2009 tournament. In both tournaments hosted in Springfield, the Panthers captured the GLVC Tournament title. <br />
 <br />
The GLVC Men's and Women's Soccer Championship Tournaments will take place Nov. 6-8, following the quarterfinal-round matches on Nov. 1.  <br />
 
<p><strong>FOLLOW THE PANTHERS</strong><br />
For all the latest information on Drury athletics, please visit <a href="https://drurypanthers.com/index.aspx">drurypanthers.com</a>. For up-to-the-minute updates, follow the Panthers on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/druryathletics/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://x.com/drurypanthers">X</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DruryAthletics/">Facebook</a>.</p>

<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<em>#OneDrury</em> </div>]]></description><media:thumbnail url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_system&amp;image_path=/images/2026/4/21/2024-12-19-17-21-42-795.PNG" /><media:content url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/4/21/2024-12-19-17-21-42-795.PNG"><media:title>Lake Country</media:title></media:content><enclosure url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/4/21/2024-12-19-17-21-42-795.PNG" length="1" type="image/jpg" /><pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 13:04:00 CST</pubDate><s:sport_id>7</s:sport_id><s:story_id>16655</s:story_id></item><item><title>Drury Lands 10 CSC Academic All-District Selections</title><link>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/23/mens-cross-country-drury-lands-10-csc-academic-all-district-selections.aspx</link><guid>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/23/mens-cross-country-drury-lands-10-csc-academic-all-district-selections.aspx</guid><category>Men's Cross Country, Women's Cross Country, Men's Track and Field, Women's Track and Field</category><s:teaser><![CDATA[SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Ten Drury Track and Field/Cross Country athletes have been selected for 2026 Academic All-District honors by the College Sports Communicators (CSC), the organization announced Tuesday.]]></s:teaser><description><![CDATA[<img alt="XCTF CSC All-District" src="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&image_path=/images/2026/6/22/XCTF_-_CSC_Web.png" /><br /><br /><p><strong>SPRINGFIELD, Mo. –</strong> Ten Drury Track and Field/Cross Country athletes have been selected for 2026 Academic All-District honors by the College Sports Communicators (CSC), the organization announced Tuesday. <br />
 <br />
The 2025-26 Academic All-District® Men's and Women's Cross Country/Track & Field teams, selected by College Sports Communicators, recognize the nation's top student-athletes for their combined performances in athletic competition and in the classroom. The CSC Academic All-America® program separately recognizes cross country/track & field honorees in four divisions — NCAA Division I, NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III and NAIA.<br />
 <br />
Lauren Coleman earned CSC Academic All-District honors for the first time in her career. The sophomore recorded four top-50 regional marks during the track and field season. During the outdoor season, Coleman posted two top-20 marks, including marks that ranked 16th in the 100 meters and 19th in the 200 meters. The sprinter placed sixth in the 200 meters at the GLVC Outdoor Championships. <br />
 <br />
Josie Diffendaffer earned her second consecutive CSC Academic All-District selection. Diffendaffer was an All-GLVC honoree in cross country after placing 13th at the GLVC Championships and finishing 34th at the NCAA Midwest Regional. During the outdoor track and field season, Diffendaffer had top-50 regional marks in the 5,000 and 10,000 meters. <br />
 <br />
Cera Eckenroth earned the most accolades among Drury's women's honorees during the 2025-26 season. Eckenroth placed fourth at the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) Cross Country Championships to earn All-GLVC honors and followed up with an All-Region performance at the NCAA Midwest Regional, where she placed 22nd. The Albuquerque native earned three additional All-GLVC honors in track and field after finishing second indoors in the mile, second in the outdoor 5,000 meters, and third in the outdoor 1,500 meters. During the season, Eckenroth set a school record in the 5,000 meters with a time of 16:52.50, which ranked sixth in the region and 37th nationally. The sophomore also recorded three additional marks that ranked among the top 25 in the region.<br />
 <br />
Delaney Riekert earned her first CSC Academic All-District honor after a strong indoor track and field campaign. In her first season with the Panthers, Riekert recorded three top-50 regional marks in the 60, 200, and 400-meter dashes. At the GLVC Indoor Championships, the junior finished sixth in the 200 meters and seventh in the 400 meters. The sprinter also recorded three performances that rank among the top 10 in program history, including the school record in the 400 meters. <br />
 <br />
On the men's side, Topi Alahuhta was selected for his second straight CSC Academic All-District honor. Alahuhta placed 39th at the NCAA Midwest Regional during the cross country season. The Conifer, Colorado, native earned All-GLVC honors at the GLVC Outdoor Championships, where he placed third in the 10,000 meters with a mark that ranked 14th in the region. Alahuhta also recorded top-50 regional marks in the indoor 3,000 and 5,000 meters, as well as the outdoor 5,000 meters. The distance runner set the program record in the indoor 5,000 meters this season. <br />
 <br />
Tyler Harris earned the second CSC Academic All-District honor of his career and has been selected as a CSC Academic All-America finalist. Harris placed second at the GLVC Cross Country Championships and eighth at the NCAA Midwest Regional. The Springfield native set records in both the 8K and 10K races and ranked sixth and 11th in the region, respectively. Harris was named GLVC Men's Cross Country Scholar-Athlete of the Year while also earning All-GLVC and All-Region honors.<br />
 <br />
Ethan Haynes earned his first CSC Academic All-District honor in his final season at Drury. Haynes was named All-GLVC after placing 11th at the conference championships and posting a mark that ranks third in program history and 38th in the region. The Republic, Missouri, native set top-50 regional marks in the indoor 3,000 and 5,000 meters. Haynes closed his career at the GLVC Outdoor Championships, where he placed sixth in the 10,000 meters and set a mark that ranks 17th in the region.<br />
 <br />
Kyle Keltner earned his second consecutive CSC Academic All-District honor. The Springfield native broke the school record, ranking 14th regionally in the indoor mile, while also recording two other top-50 regional marks. The junior also recorded three additional top-10 marks in program history last season. <br />
 <br />
Luca Scholes-Robertson was named CSC Academic All-District for the first time in his career. The sophomore ranked 29th regionally in the indoor 3,000 meters and 31st regionally in the outdoor 800 meters last season. Scholes-Robertson ended the season at the GLVC Outdoor Championships, where he placed fourth in the 1,500 meters. <br />
 <br />
Triple jumper Mason St. Clair was selected for CSC Academic All-District honors. The Springfield native set an indoor mark that ranked 33rd in the region and an outdoor mark that ranked 37th in the region. St. Clair owns six top-10 marks in program history. <br />
 <br />
The Drury men's and women's programs finished fifth and sixth, respectively, at the GLVC Cross Country Championships. Both programs placed eighth at the GLVC Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field Championships.<br />
<br />
<strong>FOLLOW THE PANTHERS</strong><br />
For all the latest information on Drury athletics, please visit <a href="https://drurypanthers.com/index.aspx">drurypanthers.com</a>. For up-to-the-minute updates, follow the Panthers on <a href="https://x.com/DruryXCTF">X</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/druryxctf/">Instagram</a>.</p>

<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<em>#OneDrury</em> </div>
 <br />]]></description><media:thumbnail url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_system&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/22/XCTF_-_CSC_Web.png" /><media:content url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/22/XCTF_-_CSC_Web.png"><media:title>XCTF CSC All-District</media:title></media:content><enclosure url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/22/XCTF_-_CSC_Web.png" length="1" type="image/jpg" /><pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:08:00 CST</pubDate><s:sport_id>5</s:sport_id><s:story_id>16656</s:story_id></item><item><title>Record 324 Drury Student-Athletes Earn Academic All-GLVC Honors</title><link>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/23/baseball-record-324-drury-student-athletes-earn-academic-all-glvc-honors.aspx</link><guid>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/23/baseball-record-324-drury-student-athletes-earn-academic-all-glvc-honors.aspx</guid><category>Baseball, Men's Basketball, Men's Cross Country, Men's Golf, Men's Soccer, Men's Swim &amp; Dive, Men's Tennis, Women's Basketball, Women's Cross Country, Women's Golf, Women's Soccer, Softball, Women's Swim &amp; Dive, Women's Tennis, Volleyball, Men's Track and Field, Women's Track and Field, Wrestling, STUNT</category><s:teaser><![CDATA[]]></s:teaser><description><![CDATA[<img alt="baileyglvcmgolf26" src="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&image_path=/images/2026/6/23/Bailey.jpg" /><br /><br />]]></description><media:thumbnail url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_system&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/23/Bailey.jpg" /><media:content url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/23/Bailey.jpg"><media:title>baileyglvcmgolf26</media:title></media:content><enclosure url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/23/Bailey.jpg" length="1" type="image/jpg" /><pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 10:44:00 CST</pubDate><s:sport_id>3</s:sport_id><s:story_id>16657</s:story_id></item><item><title>Bailey Inks Extension Through 2029-30 Season</title><link>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/22/womens-basketball-bailey-inks-extension-through-2029-30-season.aspx</link><guid>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/22/womens-basketball-bailey-inks-extension-through-2029-30-season.aspx</guid><category>Women's Basketball</category><s:teaser><![CDATA[SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Drury University Vice President and Director of Athletics Nyla Milleson announced Monday (June 22) that Drury head women's basketball coach Kaci Bailey has signed a contract extension through the 2029-30 season.]]></s:teaser><description><![CDATA[<img alt="baileyquincy2026" src="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&image_path=/images/2026/6/15/1H6A9934.jpg" /><br /><br /><strong>SPRINGFIELD, Mo.</strong> – Drury University Vice President and Director of Athletics Nyla Milleson announced Monday (June 22) that Drury head women's basketball coach Kaci Bailey has signed a contract extension through the 2029-30 season.<br />
 <br />
&quot;I am delighted to know that Kaci will continue to lead our student-athletes into the future with this new contract extension that will keep her with us for the years to come,&quot; Milleson said. &quot;Coach Bailey continues to uphold the standard of the Lady Panthers program and develop great young women.&quot;<br />
 <br />
Bailey has won 68 games in her first three seasons at the helm, extending Drury's streak of 13 consecutive 20-win seasons.<br />
 <br />
During the 2023-24 season, her first with the Lady Panthers, Drury finished 25-7, reached the GLVC Tournament Championship, and earned the program's 21st NCAA Tournament appearance. Four Lady Panthers earned all-conference honors, highlighted by Reese Schaaf, who was named GLVC Player of the Year, Midwest Region Player of the Year, and a Second Team All-American.<br />
 <br />
In 2024-25, Bailey's squad posted a 22-7 record with a 17-3 GLVC mark. Point guard Caitlynn Daniels earned All-American honors, and four Panthers received all-conference recognition.<br />
 <br />
The 2025-26 season saw Drury finish 21-8, securing the program's 13th straight 20-win campaign. The year included an 11-game winning streak and a victory over No. 20 Missouri-St. Louis. Sara Mendel earned all-region honors after a record-setting season in which she established new program marks for single-season double-doubles (20) and field-goal percentage (67.9%). Mendel, Rhi Gibbons, and Kaylee King were all named to the GLVC All-Conference Team.<br />
 <br />
Academically, Bailey's teams have excelled, producing 12 CSC Academic All-District selections and the program's sixth CSC Academic All-American, earned by Daniels. Schaaf was named the GLVC Student-Athlete of the Year following the 2023-24 season.<br />
 <br />
&quot;I would like to thank the leadership at Drury, especially Dr. Frederick and Nyla, for believing in our staff and me to continue to lead this historic program,&quot; coach Bailey commented. &quot;Thank you to the community and the best fans in the country for the support.&quot;<br />
 <br />
Beyond Drury, Bailey served as head coach of the USA D2 All-Stars during their 2025 tour of Brazil, leading the team to a 3-0 record. Three Lady Panthers - Gibbons, King, and Mendel - competed on the roster, while assistant coach Destiny Smith joined the staff for the international trip.<br />
 <br />
Bailey was named the sixth head coach in Drury women's basketball history on April 5, 2023.<br />
 <br />
<strong>FOLLOW THE LADY PANTHERS</strong><br />
For all the latest information on Drury athletics, please visit <a href="https://drurypanthers.com/sports/womens-basketball">drurypanthers.com</a>. For up-to-the-minute updates, follow the Panthers on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drurywbb/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://x.com/DULadyPanthers">X</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/drurywbb">Facebook</a>

<div style="text-align: center;"><em>#OneDrury</em></div>]]></description><media:thumbnail url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_system&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/15/1H6A9934.jpg" /><media:content url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/15/1H6A9934.jpg"><media:title>baileyquincy2026</media:title></media:content><enclosure url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/15/1H6A9934.jpg" length="1" type="image/jpg" /><pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 09:00:00 CST</pubDate><s:sport_id>10</s:sport_id><s:story_id>16653</s:story_id></item><item><title>16 Drury Teams Earn GLVC Academic Awards</title><link>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/22/mens-swim-dive-16-drury-teams-earn-glvc-academic-awards.aspx</link><guid>https://drurypanthers.com/news/2026/6/22/mens-swim-dive-16-drury-teams-earn-glvc-academic-awards.aspx</guid><category>Baseball, Men's Cross Country, Men's Golf, Men's Soccer, Men's Swim &amp; Dive, Men's Tennis, Women's Basketball, Women's Golf, Women's Soccer, Softball, Women's Swim &amp; Dive, Women's Tennis, Volleyball, Women's Track and Field, STUNT</category><s:teaser><![CDATA[]]></s:teaser><description><![CDATA[<img alt="Swim GLVC championships" src="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&image_path=/images/2026/6/22/team4.jpg" /><br /><br />]]></description><media:thumbnail url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_system&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/22/team4.jpg" /><media:content url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/22/team4.jpg"><media:title>Swim GLVC championships</media:title></media:content><enclosure url="https://drurypanthers.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_prefix=rp_primary&amp;image_path=/images/2026/6/22/team4.jpg" length="1" type="image/jpg" /><pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 10:04:00 CST</pubDate><s:sport_id>8</s:sport_id><s:story_id>16654</s:story_id></item></channel></rss>