All-American Levi Horn to give free lecture prior to N7 basketball games

Big Sky Conference play is in full swing for Griz and Lady Griz basketball, and over the next several weeks, there are many free off-the-court highlights that fans can take advantage of, including pregame lectures with former Griz/NFL player Levi Horn – prior the women's N7 basketball game (Jan. 18 – as well as a Winter Pep Rally in between the Lady Griz and Griz Brawl of the Wild games (Jan. 25).

** UPDATE **
Unfortunately, a family obligation has caused a cancelation to the originally scheduled Levi Horn lecture on Saturday, Feb. 1

N7 Basketball Games & Levi Horn Lecture (Jan. 18)
The University of Montana resides on the traditional lands of many Indigenous peoples including the Selis (Salish), Ksanka (Kootenai), and Qlispe (Kalispel). Many Indigenous peoples, including the Amskapi Pikuni (Blackfeet), Nimiipuu (Nez Perce), Shoshone, Bannock, and Coeur D'Alene relied upon their traditional knowledge and relationships with this land and this space for survival in the past and today.

In 2024, it is estimated that more than 88,000 residents of Montana have Native American heritage, one of the highest percentages in the nation. Additionally, the University of Montana has one of the highest enrollment rates of Native American students in the United States, being one of the leading universities to offer Native American Studies as a major.

To help recognize and celebrate Montana's close history with Native American and Indigenous peoples, Griz Athletics is hosting N7 basketball games for the third year in a row. The N7 program is a Nike initiative, led by Fort Peck native Sam McCracken, that shows Nike's long-time commitment and mission to inspire and enable 2 million Native America and Aboriginal youth in North America to participate in sport and physical activity.

The customized turquoise uniforms, which is a color that symbolizes friendship and fellowship in Native American cultures, were created by Nike. The logo that is displayed on shooting shirts and across retailers, was designed by UM alumna Kaylene Big Knife, a member of the Chippewa Cree Tribe.

Officially licensed Nike Griz retail is available for sale through the Go Griz Store on campus, The M Store, Scheels and a variety of other local outlets. Proceeds will support UM's Kyiyo Pow Wow, one of the oldest student-run powwows in the nation.

In addition to the two N7 games, prior to both games, former Griz and NFL player Levi Horn (Northern Cheyenne Tribe) will give a free lecture 90 minutes prior to both games (12:30 p.m. on Jan. 18, 2:30 p.m. on Feb. 1). A ticket to the game is required for admission, but there is no additional ticket needed for the presentation, which will be held in the Adams Center's West Auxiliary Gym.

His speech is titled, 'Medicine Game', and will tell his personal story of overcoming trauma and how his education at UM has empowered him to fight for Native youth around the country.

Horn is a 2010 graduate of the University of Montana after a career that saw him earn All-Big Sky Conference and All-America honors as an offensive tackle. He then went on to play in the NFL with the Chicago Bears.

The Lady Griz host their N7 game against Idaho State on Saturday, Jan. 18 at 2 p.m. The men play host to Sacramento State on Saturday, Feb. 1 at 4 p.m.

Gallery: (2-4-2023) MBB: Montana vs Northern Arizona (N7)

Brawl of the Wild & Winter Pep Rally (Jan. 25)
Saturday, Jan. 25 is a Bawl of the Wild doubleheader, with the Lady Griz hosting Montana State at 2, and the men facing off at 7.

In between, fans are invited to the Winter Pep Rally. This free event will run from 4 to 6:30 p.m. in the University Center and on the Oval, and will feature face painting and games with
student-athletes; free ice skating and skate rentals; free play at the Gaming Den; and much more! Plus, food options and a beer garden in both the UC and on the Oval will be available.

The Winter Pep Rally culminates with a bonfire and fireworks show on the Oval, before fans are encouraged to head back to Dahlberg Arena for that night's rivalry basketball game.

This is the third installment of the Winter Pep Rally, but first year that it has been moved to Saturday, in-between basketball games. It will also be expanded this year, with activities inside the UC and outside on the Oval, as well as collaboration with athletics and various departments across campus.

University of Montana Athletics

All-American Levi Horn to give free lecture prior to N7 basketball games

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