Gila River’s B.T.B. Boys Shine Before NABI Exit Against Cheyenne Arapaho

August 22, 2025

Jeston Morris

Community Newsperson

PHOENIX — The Bigger Than Basketball (B.T.B.) boys’ team from Gila River defeated the Apache Scouts in a high-energy game at Alhambra Gymnasium on Thursday, July 24.

The final game of the day was electrifying, with Gila River Indian Community members packing the gym to cheer on their home team. Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis was in attendance. B.T.B. led for most of the game, with one exceptionwhen the Apache Scouts scored several consecutive points to take the lead.

White Mountain Apache fans erupted in cheers and gave a standing ovation, shaking the gym with excitement. Gila River fans responded with boos, prompting B.T.B to call a timeout. Everyone was on their feet—including Gov. Lewis. After the timeout, B.T.B. stormed back to reclaim the lead. Gila River fans stomped, clapped and roared in support. The game was widely considered one of the most thrilling matchups of the Native American Basketball Invitational (NABI). The final score: B.T.B. 61, Apache Scouts 48.

“I am proud of my boys for winning tonight,” said Elliot Kisto, head coach from District 3. “B.T.B. has been active for three years. This is our second time advancing to the second round. Everyone played well tonight.”

Kisto also gave a shoutout to other Gila River teams: the GRIC Mustangs, 21st Natives, and both the boys and girls teams. “And a big shoutout to the B.T.B. boys team for representing Gila River,” he said.

Daniel Smith, head coach of the Apache Scouts, praised his team’s effort. “The Apache  Scouts are from the White Mountain Apache Reservation. We have 10 players on our team. Our plan is to play as tough as we can and go as far as we can in the tournament,” Smith said. “This is our second year playing in NABI. We’re bringing in a lot of new players and starting fresh. I’m proud of my players.”

The following day, Friday, July 25, B.T.B. faced the Cheyenne Arapaho team at Central High School Gymnasium. Despite a hard-fought effort, B.T.B. was eliminated from the tournament  after a 76–40 loss.

“Our last game was tough. Cheyenne Arapaho was more experienced and faster,” Kisto said. “But one thing I love about our B.T.B. team is that we didn’t give up. The team left everything on the court. I’m proud of the boys. Losing and getting eliminated is a hard pill to swallow, especially for our seniors.” 

Kisto reflected on the team’s journey and  mission.

“I’ve been involved with Gila River basketball coaching for four to five years. One of our coaches came up with the name Bigger Than Basketball (B.T.B.). Our program supports educational, college and career goals,” he said. “This is the farthest we’ve gone in the NABI tournament. I’m proud of our B.T.B. team and all the Gila River teams.”