18-year-old Strathmore basketball player Carter Yellow Horn is representing Alberta in the North American Indigenous Games (NAIG). Hosted in Halifax, this tournament showcases the best Indigenous athletes around the continent. Carter is proud to represent the province and Strathmore, but he plays for more than just that. Last year, Carter tragically lost his older brother Channer, and he plays basketball to honour his life and legacy.
"He was really someone that was a big part of my basketball career and I definitely owe a lot to him for how much experience and knowledge that I have of the game. He was just always a big part of my life, playing for him is truly an honour," Carter said.
As a member of the Strathmore Spartans Carter wears #5, the same number Channer used to wear. In the NAIG Carter said #5 wasn't available so he took the closest available jersey #4.Channer was an exceptional player, winning several provincial championships during his playing career, so Carter said he works as hard as he can to fill those shoes and live up to the legacy Channer left behind.
"It was one of the sports that he really loved and he gave his all to, so I wanted to do the same and wanted to show him that I could be as great as he was."
While Carter plays for Channer, he added his entire family is very important to him and says his father Shay is his role model. Beyond being a fantastic father and man, Carter explained he learned a lot of what he knows about basketball from his dad.
"He's been an amazing role model from a kid when I was younger... since three years old I've known proper shooting from him and my mom."
Carter with his father ShayThe entire Yellow Horn family is really into basketball, and Carter said it's a passion that brings them all together. He said the entire family has made it to the NAIG at some point in their lives, so Carter is happy to follow in their footsteps.
As for the NAIG itself, Carter explained he's played at several high-level tournaments before, but the level of competition at the NAIG is something he's never seen.
"It's been really great, getting close with my team, being able to compete at such a high level, it's just an awesome experience."
The NAIG will continue for the rest of the week and the weekend, and Carter is hoping to bring a medal back to Strathmore not only for the community and the team, but for Channer and all that he meant to Carter and the Yellow Horn family.
From left to right: Carter's brother Tyis, Carter, ChannerSend your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@strathmorenow.com
Fri, May 3, 10:00 AM
