Ivy Fox: From Fort Berthold to the National Stage | The Winner’s Edge

Interview conducted by Daybreak Star Radio Sports Producer, Jermaine Jackson

At Daybreak Star Radio, we continue to indigenize the airwaves by spotlighting athletes whose stories inspire the next generation of Native youth. Recently, our Sports Producer Jermaine Jackson sat down with a powerful young woman who embodies the heart of Native resilience and ambition — Ivy Fox (MHA Nation, Dakota Sioux), a 6-foot forward whose basketball journey has taken her from the small community of Fort Berthold Indian Reservation in North Dakota to the bright lights of Division I basketball.

Known on the court for her strength and presence, Ivy has competed at every level — from North Dakota State College to Coffeyville, to La Salle University in Philadelphia — and now represents Haskell Indian Nations University, where she continues to elevate her game while staying grounded in her Native identity.

Finding the Game — and the Calling

When asked how it all began, Ivy smiled and reflected on her early start. “When I was five, I lived off the reservation and was signed up for YMCA basketball,” she said. “From there, I just loved it.” That spark turned into a lifelong passion. Her family’s belief in her dream was just as strong — they even created a traveling basketball team called Intensity, pulling together girls from different reservations.

Lessons from the Rez to D1

Growing up in Parshall, North Dakota, Ivy was trusted to lead her high school team — something that helped her develop leadership skills early. “They trusted me to be the leader of the team,” she said. “That taught me how to lead and how to use those contributions in college and, hopefully, when I go play overseas.”

Her path since high school has been full of challenges and growth. “Leaving the reservation and being on my own was tough,” Ivy explained. “You kind of lose a bit of who you are when you leave home.” But she didn’t let that stop her. She earned First Team All-Conference honors at North Dakota State College, then transferred to Coffeyville, where she thrived in one of the toughest JUCO conferences in the country.

From there, she achieved a lifelong dream — a Division I scholarship to La Salle University. “That was my goal ever since I knew what D1 meant,” she said. “It was everything I’d worked for.” But despite success on the court, the distance from home began to take a toll. “It didn’t feel right,” she admitted. “When something doesn’t feel right, you just know.” After entering the transfer portal, she found the right fit at Haskell — surrounded by coaches and teammates who made her feel at home.

Strength, Spirit, and Leadership

On the court, Ivy’s game is built on strength, physicality, and hustle. “I grew up with all boys,” she laughed. “So I was taught to play physical — that’s definitely one of my strengths.” She also prides herself on running the floor and being vocal.

When it comes to growth, Ivy is focused on balance and versatility: “I want to be a consistent three-level scorer. I’m left-handed, so I’ve been working on using my right more and improving my off-ball movement and shooting.”

Leadership is another area where she leads by example. “You’re in the gym every day — your teammates will see that,” she said. “You are who you hang around, so I make sure I’m doing all the right things.”

Staying Grounded and Giving Back

Through all the ups and downs, Ivy’s foundation has been her faith and her family. “Anything I do is through the grace of God,” she said. “My mom and grandmother always remind me to remember who I am and where I come from.”

Her connection to culture runs deep — from traditional dancing to prayer. Even though basketball has demanded much of her time, she never forgets her roots. “It’s important to represent my community,” she said. “I was that young Native girl once, wishing I had an older player to look up to.”

Today, she’s become that role model herself. Young girls often approach her for photos and autographs after games — moments that remind her why representation matters. “I always want to give back because that’s what I wished I had growing up on the rez,” Ivy said.

Looking Ahead

As she continues her next chapter at Haskell, Ivy’s goals are clear: finish her degree, play professionally overseas, and eventually start her own basketball program for young Native girls who can’t afford travel teams or camps. “Growing up, my family had to pay a lot for me to play and travel,” she said. “I want to create something for the rez where those girls can play without worrying about money.”

When she’s not on the court, Ivy’s second home is the weight room. “Lift, lift,” she laughed. “That’s what I love doing — I’m in the gym all the time.”

With her combination of drive, humility, and pride in her heritage, Ivy Fox is showing that Native athletes not only belong on the national stage — they can thrive there. Her story is one of faith, focus, and giving back, and at Daybreak Star Radio, we’re honored to help share it.

“Remember who you are. Remember where you come from. And never let anyone tell you that you can’t achieve your dreams.” — Ivy Fox