On January 3, 2026, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren traveled to Provo, Utah, to support Navajo student-athlete Sydney Benally as she competed in a women’s basketball matchup between Brigham Young University and Arizona State University at the BYU Marriott Center.
BYU secured a 71–62 victory over ASU in front of a strong home crowd. President Nygren attended the game to show his support for Benally, a highly regarded Navajo freshman guard for the BYU Cougars women’s basketball team.
Benally delivered an impressive performance, finishing with 16 points, five rebounds, and three steals, contributing on both ends of the court and helping lead BYU to the win. A two-time New Mexico Gatorade Player of the Year and a Big 12 Freshman of the Week honoree, Benally has made an immediate impact in her debut collegiate season through her leadership, playmaking, and scoring ability.
Following the game, President Nygren met with Benally on the court and spent time with Navajo community members who traveled to Provo to support her. Families, students, and supporters gathered for photos, celebrating both the victory and the visibility of Navajo excellence on a national collegiate stage.
“Seeing our Navajo students succeed at this level is powerful,” President Nygren said. “Sydney represents the strength of our people, our families, and our communities. I came to support her, and seeing so many Navajo supporters in the crowd was something I truly enjoyed.”
The Navajo Nation remains committed to uplifting its youth and celebrating their achievements in academics, athletics, and leadership wherever they pursue their dreams.
