The WNBA team Phoenix Mercury held a special celebration, “Inspiring Girls Night,” during their game against the Los Angeles Sparks on June 28 at the Footprint Center in downtown Phoenix.

Among those present were members from a few Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community youth programs, including Recreation, Social Services, the Boys & Girls Club and the Miss and Jr. Miss Salt River courts.

Nike N7 partners donated a section of seats to the Community, and SRPMIC Council member Mikah Carlos invited the Miss Salt River Committee to attend, according to Miss Salt River Committee Chairwoman Elisa Pongyesvia. She said that, for a few of the girls, it was their first time attending a Mercury game.

“We are thankful to the Community, its partnerships, as well as Councilwoman Carlos for thinking of the Miss Salt River Committee,” said Pongyesvia.

The girls in attendance were Zoe Hernandez, 1st Attendant to Miss Salt River; Tiaré Begay-Smith, 1st Attendant to Jr. Miss Salt River; Jr. Miss Salt River Diondria Pilger; and Aiyanna Toya, 2nd Attendant to Jr. Miss Salt River.

Toya said that the night was a fun experience.

“Being there to watch the Mercury play basketball was definitely a top tier moment for me,” said Toya.

“Inspiring Girls Night definitely inspired me to never give up on my dreams and always [reach] for something greater.”

“Inspiring Girls Night to me is awesome. It’s why I play the game. It’s why I coach the game,” said Kristi Toliver, associate head coach for the Phoenix Mercury.

“I want them to see all these women that are excelling … and understand that they are more than capable of accomplishing their goals, whether it’s on or off the court.”

The Mercury defeated the Sparks 92-78.