Lakota Nation Invitational Is Canceled For 2020

RAPID CITY –  The Lakota Nation Invitational (LNI) board voted today to cancel all 2020 LNI events and basketball tournament, due to the rising numbers and concerns about safety for our students/athletes, fans and workers due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following are the quotes from LNI board President Chuck Wilson and Founder and Director of the Basketball Tournament Bryan Brewer regarding the decision from the LNI Board to cancel the tournament and events this year:

“It was a very difficult decision to have to cancel this year’s event, obviously the concerns with COVID-19 pushed us to this decision.  We’ve already started making plans for the 2021 LNI, with the addition of the new arena, LNI will be bigger and better.  I would like to thank all of the staff at the Monument, Visit Rapid City, Ketel Thorstensen and all the businesses that supported LNI.  I just want everyone to be careful and safe during this tough period of time and extend my thanks to everyone,” Chuck Wilson, LNI Board President said.

“I’m saddened that we had to cancel this year, but we will be back bigger and better next year, the biggest concern was for our children/fans/officials/workers/athletes “stated Bryan Brewer, LNI Founder and Director/

Founded in 1976 on the Pine Ridge Reservation with 8 teams, The Lakota Nation Invitational (LNI) swiftly became the premier event in the state of South Dakota and the upper Midwest. It has grown to a 32 team tournament for high school girls and boys to compete in during the winter season.  It also hosts many events in conjunction with the basketball tournament.

The Lakota Nation Invitational (LNI) moved to Rapid City in 1979 when it became too big to host on the Pine Ridge Reservation.  The Sacred Black Hills have always been the Spiritual Center for the Lakota People so it’s quickly became home for the tournament.

For more information on the tournament:  www.lakotanationinvitational.com

The post Lakota Nation Invitational Is Canceled For 2020 first appeared on Native Sun News Today.

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