Haskell Indian Nations University’s #5 Kamryn Yazzie and #21 Marilyn Goodman play defense against Fort Lewis College’s #0 Ember Cervantes during the Native American Heritage NCAA Games powered by NABI on Saturday, Nov. 4. Fort Lewis College and Haskell Indian Nations University competed against each other in front of a crowd of 1,000+ fans. The free community event has been a long-time goal for SunUte Community Center, exposing collegiate athletics to local youth.
NABI Nation President, GinaMarie Scarpa sponsored the Native American Heritage NCAA Games, during the kickoff event, she commended the athletes and youth attendees for their dedication to athletics as well as their education.
Warren Whyte competes in the Free Throw contest finals on Saturday, Nov. 4 during the halftime of the Women’s game.
Free Throw competition winners in the high school and 18+ categories stand alongside SunUte Staff, Eliyah Lucero and Kelsey Frost after the finals for the Free Throw contest. Competitors had two chances at making a half-court shot, winners received signed FLC jerseys for their participation.
During the event, athletes who traveled to Canada for this year’s North American Indigenous Games were also recognized.
HINU Men’s Basketball Head Coach, Matthew Downing stands with Southern Ute tribal elder Russell Blackbird.
The FLC men’s team warms up before their game against the Haskell Indian Nations University men’s basketball team.
FLC President, Tom Stritikus sits with table officials during the game, cheering on the men’s team.
To her surprise, SunUte Director Robin Duffy-Wirth is honored with a Pendleton blanket presented by the Southern Ute Tribal Council for her continued efforts in community building and her service to the Southern Ute Indian Tribe.
Guard #33, Sadie Misner looks to make a pass during the Native American Heritage NCAA Games powered by NABI on Saturday, Nov. 4 at SunUte Community Center.
Little Miss Southern Ute, Shayne White Thunder practices her shots during the kickoff event on Friday, Nov. 3 at SunUte Community Center. During the kickoff event, youth had the opportunity to meet Fort Lewis College athletes and their coaches, spending the evening together to play games and enjoy a free meal.
Southern Ute tribal member, Autumn Sage competes in the Free Throw Contest. Each contestant has ten free throws, contestants with the most free throws made advanced to the finals which were held the following day.
FLC Men’s and Women’s basketball teams gathered to hear from SunUte Director, Robin Duffy-Wirth, NABI Nation President GinaMarie Scarpa, Southern Ute Royalty and Ute Mountain Ute Royalty.
