Southern Utes join Denver Nuggets to celebrate Native American Heritage Month

Thursday - December 11, 2025 by By Staff Report  Southern Ute Tribal Council Affairs 
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Southern Ute Royalty and heritage dancers performed during the Denver Nuggets basketball half time show in Denver on Saturday, Nov. 22 at the Ball Arena. Jr. Miss Southern Ute, Shayne White Thunder showcased her dance style.
Miss Southern Ute Alternate, Autumn Sage dances during the Denver Nuggets halftime show.
Heritage dancers and family dance during the Denver Nuggets Halftime show on Saturday, Nov. 22.
Miss Southern Ute, Zuriah Baker joins tribal members from Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute as well as fellow Southern Ute Royalty during the Native American Heritage Night in Denver.
Southern Ute Brave, Theoden Greany dances during the Native American Heritage Night program in Denver.
Southern Ute Vice Chairman, Marvin Pinnecoose gives the welcome speech during the Denver Nuggets halftime show on Saturday, Nov. 22 in Denver’s Ball Arena. Pinnecoose was joined by Southern Ute Councilmembers Marge Barry and Andrew Gallegos.
Southern Ute tribal member and Ignacio High School Boys' Basketball head coach, Trae Seibel welcomes attendees to the Native American Heritage Night in Denver. The Ignacio High School boys' basketball team was given the honor of passing in the game ball at the beginning of the Denver Nuggets game, Saturday, Nov. 22.
Photo Credit: Krista Richards | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Krista Richards | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Krista Richards | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Krista Richards | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Krista Richards | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Krista Richards | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Krista Richards | The Southern Ute Drum
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Halftime program honors Nuuchiu culture and strengthens community connections 

November marks Native American Heritage Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Tribes across the United States. In that spirit, the Southern Ute Indian Tribe proudly partnered with the Denver Nuggets for the Native American Heritage Game, Saturday, Nov. 22 at Ball Arena in Denver. 

The halftime program honored the enduring presence of the Nuuchiu and Native communities in Colorado through a vibrant showcase of culture and youth. The celebration featured traditional heritage dancers, performances by the Yellowjacket Singers, heritage dancers, and Southern Ute Royalty. Representatives from the Southern Ute Tribal Council and the Sunshine Cloud Smith Youth Advisory Council were also in attendance, alongside the Ignacio High School Boys Basketball team. 

“This partnership is about more than basketball – it’s about sharing our story and honoring the resilience of Native communities,” said Vice Chairman Marvin Pinnecoose. “It’s a moment to showcase our enduring presence and build positive community relations.” 

The full halftime performance is available to view on the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s official website, social media channels, and the Tribal Member Portal. 

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