Copyright © 2003 NLThomas
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PHOENIX, AZ - The Phoenix Mercury, a presenting sponsor of the Native American Basketball Invitational (NABI), will host the opening ceremonies on July 10, 2003. This is the first-ever basketball tournament at the America West Arena comprised entirely of Native American youth.

Produced by POD Productions, NABI will be held July 10 through July 13, 2003 featuring 24 teams of male and female Native American high school student- athletes. "NABI will provide the Native American community a great opportunity to showcase their passion for the sport of basketball," said Sam McCracken, Native American business manager for Nike. "Through Nike's support of this tournament and the talented Native American student/athletes who will be participating in it, we hope to influence children to lead healthy and active lives."

At the center of Nike's sponsorship of NABI is NikeGO, a new grassroots program aimed at increasing physical activity among youth. Visit NikeGO for more information about the program.

While at the tournament, participants will attend "Native Circle" talks that will focus on the importance of education, health and achieving goals. A portion of proceeds from tournament ticket sales will be donated to non-profit agencies that support the needs of Native American youth and their communities.

This exciting event is being produced by POD Productions. The team of POD Productions is made up of individuals who have a strong desire to work with Native youth to help them envision a future through education and sports. A portion of proceeds from ticket sales for the tournament will be donated to non-profit agencies that work specifically with the needs of Native American youth and their communities. Additional information about the tournament can be obtained by visiting NABI 2003, their official website.