by Dan Ninham, Contributing Writer
Emmary Elizondo is Cheyenne, Otoe, Osage and Kaw. She is a senior at El Reno High School in Oklahoma.Emmary is an elite basketball player. Her team are defending Class 5A state champions. As an individual she received honors as a First Team All-district 5A, and Tulsa World 5A State Tournament First Team. She recently was named the Harrah Panther Classic tournament MVP.
“I also received the Su Ann Bigcrow MVP at the All West Tournament in Denver Colorado in March 2024,” said Emmary Elizondo. Emmary is grounded in her indigenous ways that guide her on and off the court. She said, “Growing up and being around my culture and way of life, teaches me how to respect people, meaning coaches, players and opposing players.”
“It also teaches me how to be honest and trust people which goes into trusting my teammates. Learning these values also teaches me how to take responsibility of myself and for my team,” added Emmary.
“My mentors are my parents, Jeff Elizondo and Teranne Spottedbear,” said Emmary. “They’re the ones that guide, support, encourage and go out their way to help me be successful.”
“My basketball journey started in kindergarten when I played with my twin brother Alex’s team,” said Emmary. “I played with the boys up until fifth grade. Then I joined the Lady Braves, an all Cheyenne and Arapaho girls’ team and played with them until eighth grade.”
“Majority of the girls were my teammates through high school and we finished my junior season by winning the 2024 Class 5A Oklahoma State Championship. The first in our schools history, and also finished with an undefeated record of 28-0,” added Emmary.
My great-neice is amazing.