Bighorn Contributes Well In Froid
Family Tradition
Fort Peck Reservation native Spike Bighorn was loving his time at the Class C boys’ basketball tournament in Great Falls last weekend. The former basketball standout and official in Brockton noted how he enjoys Montana basketball.
“State tournaments are always exciting, but Class C is something special,” Bighorn, who now lives in Oklahoma City, said.
But one particular player made this state tournament even more special for Bighorn. His grandson Patton Bighorn was a member of Froid/Lake’s basketball squad. He is the son of the late Quinn Bighorn of Brockton.
“It’s just incredible,” Spike said of Patton playing at the Class C state tournament. “I was telling him after they won divisionals that he is the first one in the family to make it to State.”
When Spike played for Brockton from 1975-1978, the Warriors made it as far as the Saturday morning round of the divisional tournament. During Quinn’s senior year, Brockton compiled a 25-1 record but placed only third at the divisional tournament. At one time, Quinn held the school record by scoring 53 points in a game.
Spike said Patton has some of the same facial characteristics that Quinn did. At times, Patton also looks like his father on the basketball court.
“He has some similarities with his jump shot,” Spike said.
Patton began attending classes in Froid this school year after transferring from Red Cloud Indian School in South Dakota.
“The community has welcomed him,” Spike said. “He feels at home there. It’s been life changing for him.”
Spike has been a faithful follower of Patton’s games through the Internet. He was very proud to see in person Patton hit consecutive three-pointers during the opening- round game against Shields Valley at the state tournament. “I just have unbelievable pride that he can contribute,” Spike said. “I’m more proud that he knows his role and is happy to play his role.”
Spike officiated two state tournaments, but he certainly treasured his role as a calm fan of Froid/Lake at this year’s tournament in Great Falls.
“Being a former official helps me keep my cool,” Spike explained. “I’ve calmed down a lot since I coached and played.”
