For Treysen Eaglestaff, a key player for North Dakota men's basketball team, the journey to success began with the values instilled by his mother, Erica Sundahl.
"My mother is my rock," he said. "Looking at the sacrifices she has made for me and her hard work, she made me the person that I am today."
Eaglestaff's passion for basketball ignited at an early age. Born while his mother was in college, he grew up tagging along with her and her roommates to classes and the gym. It was here that he first picked up a ball.
Starting at just 2, he would spend hours in the gym with his mother, a community college basketball player, running around and learning how to dribble properly.
"I like to say that I was born into basketball," he said. While his mother taught him how to play the game, an uncle served as his inspiration.
Eaglestaff and his mother, Erica Sundahl, at his high school graduation. (Photo courtesy of Treysen Eaglestaff)
When it came time to choose a college, Eaglestaff's decision was driven by family and heritage, leading him to North Dakota. He was named after his uncle, Robert Eaglestaff, a member of the school's Hall of Famewho is remembered as one of the best Native American athletes ever to wear a Fighting Hawks jersey. For Treysen, following in his uncle's footsteps and continuing the family legacy was important.
"I've always heard stories of my uncle about how great and inspiring he was in our community. It is super cool to be related to him. I try to model myself to him as much as I can," he said.
Now a junior for North Dakota, Eaglestaff has made a name for himself as one of the top players in the Summit League. Standing at 6-foot-6 with an athletic build, Eaglestaff dominates both ends of the floor. He is known for his sharp shooting and unselfish playmaking. But what truly sets him apart is his sense of purpose, which is reflected in everything he does on and off the court.
As an enrolled member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, Eaglestaff knows representation matters. His determination to succeed is not just for himself but for an entire generation of Native American kids who dream of becoming college basketball players.
"When I started making a name for myself, I realized the impact I could have. Meeting kids at my games and taking pictures with them really showed me that I am inspiring them," he said. "Nothing was ever handed to me. I had to work for what I have. I try to show the kids that they can achieve their dreams, as well."
In a session led by Eaglestaff, young players learn the fundamentals of basketball and gain inspiration. (Photo courtesy of Treysen Eaglestaff)
Eaglestaff speaks frequently at schools, where he gets to share his story in hopes of inspiring the next generation.
"The Native American culture is based on love and helping others. Whenever I get a chance to speak at different reservations, I take it," he said. "I try to give back as much as I can by spreading awareness and educating the kids on things that I personally know."
A preseason first-team All-Summit League pick this fall, Eaglestaff said competing with his teammates and making an impact in his community is what drives him. Every moment on the court is about honoring his heritage, continuing his family legacy and living up to the sacrifices his mother made for him.
"The Native American culture is a blessing to me," he said. "It has helped and supported me in many ways. I know my people have my back, no matter the circumstances."
