NAU men to play game on Navajo Nation

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. -- Northern Arizona will play a regular season men's basketball game on the Navajo Nation in Window Rock next month.

The Lumberjacks will host Embry-Riddle on Nov. 20 at the BeeHoldzil Fighting Scouts Events Center. The game is set to be televised by FOX Sports Arizona.

"Since arriving at NAU, we have always had the goal of playing a Division I basketball game on the Navajo Nation," NAU Vice President for Intercollegiate Dr. Lisa Campos said. "This is not only great for NAU Athletics, but also for the entire institution as being a leader in serving Native Americans. We are very excited about this unique opportunity."

The BeeHoldzil Fighting Scouts Events Center is a multipurpose facility in Fort Defiance, Ariz. The venue seats 6,500 for sporting events. The arena opened in January of 2014 and it is home to the Window Rock High School Fighting Scouts.

"It is exciting to think about bringing our basketball team out to Window Rock to compete in a regular season Division I game," Lumberjacks coach Jack Murphy said. "The Native American community has always shown a deep passion for the game of basketball and it is humbling for me and our program to become part of that tradition. This will have a lasting impact on our student-athletes, staff and program."

NAU opens the regular season on the road at Washington State on Nov. 13. The Lumberjacks will play three road games before it hosts Embry-Riddle in Window Rock.