NCAA seeks more information on UND-Sioux issue

The NCAA is seeking more information on UND’s use of the Fighting Sioux nickname before it rules on whether it will allow UND to use the nickname in NCAA tournaments.

UND’s appeal against the NCAA ruling that banned its nickname from postseason play still is being reviewed, NCAA spokeswoman Monica Lunderman said Friday.

Saying that UND’s nickname and logo were “hostile or abusive,” NCAA in its ruling Aug. 4 barred the school from hosting NCAA tournaments and its athletes from wearing the moniker on their uniforms in tournaments after Feb. 1.

UND appealed the ruling and since then, Lunderman said, NCAA has received input from various organizations and individuals on the issue.

Lunderman would not identify the people and organizations that have provided input and she wouldn’t characterize the input they’ve provided. She said the committee still is compiling information it’s received and is seeking additional information.

Lunderman said no date has been fixed so far for the committee to give its decision on UND’s appeal. The committee will announce its decision on UND’s appeal after considering the views of all stakeholders, she said.

Meanwhile, Spirit Lake tribal leaders have not announced their support or opposition to the nickname. Despite repeated attempts, Spirit Lake Tribal Council Chairwoman Myra Pearson could not be reached for a comment on the issue.

UND President Charles Kupchella met Thursday with some Spirit Lake Tribal Council members and tribe members.

“It was just a good discussion of the all the issues involved and the history,” he said after the meeting.