Natalia Chavez: Hooping with Purpose, Culture, and Community

Native Athlete Spotlight: Natalia Chavez

Interview conducted by Daybreak Star Radio Sports Producer, Jermaine Jackson

At Daybreak Star Radio, we’re proud to continue indigenizing the airwaves by sharing the stories of Native athletes who are making an impact both on and off the court. In this episode of The Winner’s Edge, Sports Producer Jermaine Jackson sat down with Natalia Chavez, a standout Division I basketball player at Abilene Christian University whose journey blends talent, culture, and purpose.

A proud representative of the Cochiti, Laguna, and San Felipe Pueblo, Natalia’s path to the collegiate level has been nothing short of inspiring. From hitting a viral half-court buzzer beater to win a state championship, to earning national recognition and even appearing in Netflix’s Rez Ball, she has become a powerful example of Indigenous excellence in athletics.

A Love for the Game That Started at Home

Natalia first picked up a basketball at just five years old, playing in a reservation league. But it wasn’t until she joined a club team a few years later that she realized basketball could take her far.

“I realized I was actually pretty good,” she said. “And I just loved it because it helped me connect with my dad.”

Her father played a major role in shaping her mindset, teaching her to give everything she had every time she stepped on the court. That mentality was reinforced by another influence — the late Kobe Bryant. Inspired by his relentless work ethic and competitive spirit, Natalia embraced the idea that greatness comes from what you do when no one is watching.

The Shot That Defined a Moment

One of the most iconic moments of Natalia’s career came during her junior year of high school — a half-court buzzer beater to win a state championship.

In a game filled with pressure, she trusted her instincts. With only seconds left and no time to get closer, she launched the shot from half court — and it fell.

“It was the best feeling in the world,” she said. “I don’t usually celebrate, but that was one I had to celebrate.”

The moment wasn’t just about the win. It was about sharing that victory with teammates she had grown up playing with — and representing her community on a big stage. As a Native athlete, the recognition that followed meant even more, shining a light on a group that is often overlooked in mainstream sports.

Culture as Fuel

For Natalia, basketball is deeply connected to her identity. Her Native heritage is not just something she carries — it’s something that drives her.

“When things get hard, I think about my community,” she shared. “There are kids out there looking up to me.”

She stays grounded through spiritual practices. That includes greeting the sun each morning and praying to her ancestors for guidance and protection. This daily connection gives her strength, clarity, and confidence — knowing she’s never alone in her journey.

“It makes me feel better throughout the day,” she said. “I know my ancestors have me.”

Overcoming Adversity

Like many athletes transitioning to the next level, Natalia faced challenges early in her college career — including redshirting her freshman year.

“It was hard not being on the court,” she admitted. “But my parents reminded me to keep working and stay grateful for the opportunity.”

Instead of letting that setback define her, she used it as motivation to improve. That resilience has helped her grow into a stronger, more complete player. Known for her shooting ability — confidently pulling up from anywhere on the court — she continues to develop her defensive game to match the speed and physicality of Division I basketball.

A Vision Bigger Than Basketball

Off the court, Natalia is already thinking about how she can give back. Majoring in multimedia communications with a business minor, she has her sights set on building opportunities for Indigenous youth.

One of her biggest goals is to create a training facility for Native athletes — a place where kids from the reservation can develop their skills, stay active, and stay out of trouble.

“I want to give back because I know what it takes,” she said. “And I want to help others get there too.”

She’s also exploring a future in sports broadcasting, aiming to amplify Indigenous voices in media — continuing the very work that platforms like Daybreak Star Radio are leading.

Advice for the Next Generation

Natalia’s message to young Indigenous athletes is simple but powerful:

“Keep going. Don’t let anyone bring you down. Put in the work and believe in yourself.”

She emphasizes the importance of family, mentorship, and staying connected to your roots. She wants to remind young athletes that success is never achieved alone.

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Natalia Chavez’s journey is more than basketball. It’s about purpose, representation, and using your platform to uplift others.

At Daybreak Star Radio, we’re honored to share her story — and we’ll be watching closely as she continues to rise, inspire, and lead the next generation of Indigenous athletes.