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Lindy Waters Foundation Elevated Native Basketball Tournament

Sports Lifestyle

Lindy Waters Foundation Elevated Native Basketball Tournament

Jul 16, 2026

Hibbett partnered with Nike and the Lindy Waters III Foundation to support the 4th Annual Elevated Native Basketball Tournament, held July 11-12 in Edmond, Oklahoma. The event brought together approximately 270 Native high school athletes representing 57 Tribal Nations across five states for a weekend focused on competition, education, culture and community.

Two basketball players in maroon Elevated Native jerseys stand with basketballs beside a person in a white T-shirt on an indoor court, with one player holding a wrapped pair of shoes.

Through the partnership, every athlete received a custom tournament jersey and nutrition pack, while Nike footwear was awarded to a Player of the Game following each matchup. The event also provided an opportunity to showcase Nike's N7 initiative, which promotes greater access to sport and representation for Native and Indigenous youth. 

Basketball player in a maroon Elevated Native jersey leaps over a teammate to attempt a dunk during an indoor basketball event, with spectators and players watching from the sidelines.

Beyond tournament play, the weekend celebrated Native culture and student achievement. The Lindy Waters III Foundation awarded scholarships to 11 Native students preparing to begin college this fall, while cultural programming included an honor song led by Terry Ware and his drum group and a presentation of the colors by the Native American Women Warriors Color Guard in traditional regalia.

 

Athletes also competed in Girls and Boys All-Star Games, a Dunk Contest and a Bumpout Competition. Tournament action concluded with NSA Prospects capturing the Girls Division title and OK Runners winning the Boys Division championship.

NBA player Lindy Waters III remained engaged throughout the weekend, spending time with athletes and families through autograph sessions, photos and conversations between games. Through his foundation, Waters continues to support Native youth through mentorship, education and cultural programming, helping create opportunities that extend far beyond the basketball court.

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