Bear Haas Jr., a fifth grader at Maȟpíya Lúta, has become a familiar voice at the South Dakota State Basketball Tournaments, proudly singing the Lakota Flag Song before thousands of fans. For the past four years, Bear has been part of a group of Maȟpíya Lúta students invited to sing at state tournaments in Watertown, Brookings, and Spearfish—helping to honor the Lakota people and culture on one of the state’s biggest stages.
Bear’s first experience singing at a state tournament came in Brookings. “I was excited and happy. I wasn’t nervous at all,” he said.
Even though the crowds are large, Bear says he doesn’t do much to prepare. “I don’t really prepare,” he said. “I got used to singing in front of a lot of people because I have been doing it for a long time.”
Singing the Lakota Flag Song is more than just a performance to Bear. “It’s important to me to sing at these big events like the state tournament because we can probably get the players hyped up and represent our people,” he shared.
When asked about his favorite memory, Bear quickly pointed to his first experience. “That first year in Brookings that we sang, because that was the first state tournament I ever sang at and it was really cool to be there. Also, it was the first state tournament I have ever been to.”
The tradition began in 2022 when eight Maȟpíya Lúta students were impromptu asked to sing at the state tournament. Since then, the group has grown significantly. This year, more than 25 elementary students took part in singing the Lakota Flag Song at state, continuing a powerful tradition of representation and pride. In addition to the state tournament, students have also sung at Monument and Oyate Health, at the Lakota Nation Invitational championship game, and at local community events.
Five students have participated in all four state tournaments: Kimimela Rama, Sakowin Banks, Gracie Banks, Harper McGhee, and Bear Haas Jr. Their continued commitment has helped set a foundation for others to follow.
With more planning and support each year, the presentations have become even more meaningful. Sandra Cuny has designed special shirts for the group for the past three years, and Principal Randilynn Giago, Maggie McGhee, Cherella Hughes, Tashina Rama, and Loma Cleveland have helped ensure that the girls are dressed beautifully in skirts for each performance—honoring the culture with care and pride.
Special thanks goes to Jason Drapeaux, who worked with the students early on in their singing journey and helped them find their voices. His guidance and encouragement played a key role in building the confidence that shines through each performance.
Thanks to the voices of Bear and his peers, the Lakota Flag Song continues to echo through arenas and communities.