The Navajo Indians enter this basketball season with renewed energy and a fresh perspective under first-year head coach Dakota Reedy. After finishing last season with an 8-13 record, the Indians are determined to bounce back and establish themselves as a team that can compete with anyone in Class A. With a solid group of returning players, new talent joining the program, and a hardworking culture being built, Coach Reedy believes this team could surprise people.
“This is my first year at Navajo, and I’m excited about our group,” Reedy said. “Our players have worked extremely hard and want to bounce back after last season. I think we’ll be better than most expect and will sneak up on some teams.”
Leading the way is senior Gunner Jackson, a versatile forward who averaged 13 points and six rebounds per game last season. Reedy believes Jackson is one of the most underrated players in Class A, capable of scoring at all three levels and defending every position on the floor. “A majority of our offense will run through Gunner,” Reedy said. “He’s going to surprise a lot of people this season.”
Junior Craig Russell returns as the team’s playmaker, averaging eight points, four assists, and two steals per game a year ago. Senior Kanin McDowell, known for his leadership and unselfish play, brings steady defense and valuable experience to the backcourt. Fellow seniors Noah Callins and Braxton Koukal add size and toughness in the paint, while new arrival Landon Spears is expected to make an immediate impact as a forward.
One of the most intriguing newcomers is freshman Levi Ingram, a talented all-around player with the potential to contribute right away. “Levi can handle the ball, defend multiple positions, and has a knack for getting to the rim,” Reedy said. “We’re excited to see how he develops.”
With a mix of experienced upperclassmen and promising young talent, the Navajo Indians have the pieces in place to take a major step forward.
Other players to keep an eye on are Haziel Chavez (Jr.), Owen Winters (Jr.), Kam Dorton (So.), Urijah Basaldua (Jr.), Grayson Childers (Fr.), Kooper Covey (Fr.), Miles Guenther (Fr.), Zyion Hill (Fr.), William McGloin (So.), and Kypton Tittle (Fr.)
