The Native American Basketball Invitational

POD Productions, co-founded by Mark West;VP Phoenix Suns, GinaMarie Scarpa and Scott Podleski first event debuted on July 11- 13, 2003 at the America West Arena in Phoenix, Arizona with Nike and Phoenix Suns as presenting sponsors. The vision of NABI tournament was to provide a spark that ignited Native American youth to set their sights higher, make the most of their potential and reach their dreams through sports and educational opportunities. The tournament featured 24 teams from across the U.S. and Canada.

Many of Indian Country's most influential people spoke and inspired the young people participating in the tournament. "The coaches at Haskell (Indian College) and the people who I met through basketball saved my life" said Ernie Stevens, chairman National Indian Gaming Association. Tex Hall, President, National Congress of American Indians: Shared, "I came from an era where we jumped in a beat-up car and played on worthless Courts. This tournament should show you there are people willing to invest in you" (Jessie Stomski, Native Voice)

Sam McCracken became the Manager of Native American Business at Nike in the year 2000, a position he created with the support of the "powers that be" at the sports apparel giant. As McCracken explains, "My position here at Nike is to be a face of the community. It needs a real person that can make real connections. One of my goals is to heighten the awareness of Native Americans in sports, to support Native athletes." (Lise Balk King and Jessie Stomski, Native Voice)

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