SuAnne Big Crow facts for kids

SuAnne Big Crow (born March 15, 1974 – died February 9, 1992) was an amazing basketball player. She played for Pine Ridge High School in South Dakota. In 1989, her team became state champions! SuAnne was a member of the Oglala Sioux people. She grew up on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Sadly, she passed away as a teenager in a car accident. SuAnne's life story has been shared in a book called On the Rez and in a documentary film titled Big Crow.

Basketball Star

SuAnne Big Crow was a truly special basketball player. She was known for her incredible skills on the court.

Winning the Championship

In 1989, SuAnne led her Pine Ridge High School team to win the state Class A championship. In that exciting game, she scored the winning basket right at the very last second!

Record-Breaking Player

SuAnne was considered the best girl's basketball player in South Dakota. She scored an average of 39 points in each game. She even set a state record by scoring 67 points in a single game!

Her Legacy and Awards

Even after her passing, SuAnne Big Crow continues to inspire many people. Several awards and organizations are named in her honor.

SuAnne Big Crow Boys and Girls Club

In 1992, the SuAnne Big Crow Boys and Girls Club was opened. This was the first Boys and Girls Club built in Indian Country. It was named after SuAnne because she had dreamed of a "Happy Town" for children in her community.

Spirit of Su Award

Each year, a special award called the Spirit of Su Award is given. It goes to an outstanding senior basketball player. This player must show great athletic ability, leadership, good character, and sportsmanship. They also need to have a good grade point average. The South Dakota High School Activities Association gives out this award at state basketball tournaments. Winners receive a beautiful American Indian star quilt.

SuAnne Big Crow Memorial Award

The National Education Association also gives out the SuAnne Big Crow Memorial Award. This award honors K-12 students under 20 years old. It celebrates students who have helped others feel worthy and respected. Nominees must show leadership in promoting diversity and fighting against unfairness. They should also work to improve the lives of minorities or people who are disadvantaged.

Inspiration in Music

SuAnne's courage even inspired a folk singer named John McCutcheon.

The Song "SuAnne Big Crow"

In 2007, John McCutcheon released a song called "SuAnne Big Crow" on his album "This Fire." The song tells a true story about SuAnne. One night, her high school basketball team, the Lady Thorpes, played in Lead, South Dakota. The gym was full of fans who were shouting mean things at the Native American team.

SuAnne bravely walked to the middle of the court. She performed the Shawl Dance using her warm-up jacket and sang in the Lakota language. This amazing act made the crowd completely silent. SuAnne's teammate, Doni De Cory, later said that SuAnne helped bring the two teams together. Over time, the Lady Thorpes and the Lead women's basketball team became friends.