by By Dale Pine, Jr.
The Aaniih Nakoda College (ANC) Eagles are the 2017 AIHEC Division II Men’s Basketball Champions.
After struggling in pool play, the Eagles won three straight bracket games, including a win over conference rival Stone Child, to complete their championship quest. Prior to the title game, ANC and Stone Child joined together in a prayer ceremony to symbolize unity among the two tribal colleges. The Eagles finished with a 4-2 record throughout the tournament. Mary Tobacco, Tournament Director, was impressed with the Eagles’ play. “ANC has a fighting spirit. Played hard and represented their nation well, never giving up,” she said.
Marcus Henry, a do-it all combo guard, was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player after scoring a game high 54 points in the championship game. Michael Butterfly and Sterling White Cow were also named to the all-tournament team and each averaged double figures throughout the tournament.
“It felt great to bring it back after doing bad in pool play and being able to beat my home town school in the championship after losing to them twice this year. It just felt great and it was a great experience,” said Henry. “Having 54 points felt good, too.”
So proud of you Marcus! Good experience.