BLOOMFIELD – From playing in gyms and stadiums at home and abroad to earning numerous accolades and at least a dozen Hall of Fame honors, Ryneldi Becenti has faced the challenges of life away from home while navigating gamesmanship tied to her Native American identity.
Proud of her Diné heritage, Becenti shared her journey and advice for young athletes at the latest ABFive basketball camp, hosted by Analyss Benally, in Bloomfield Saturday.
“Thanks to Analyss and her family for bringing me out, and it’s great to see the youth,” Becenti said of the event turnout. “I’ve been doing this for so many years and so I love it. I have the passion for and that’s what I try to do is inspire the kids … It’s a great experience for me, parents and everybody else.”
From Window Rock, Arizona, Becenti became the first Native American to join the WNBA, playing for the Phoenix Mercury in 1997 under head coach Cheryl Miller, who had been an inspiration for Becenti.
After graduating from Window Rock High School, where she earned high school All-American honors, Becenti played at Scottsdale Community College, earning two National Junior College Athletic Association All-American honors.
Becenti credits her parents for fueling her passion for basketball. Her father, whom she calls the “Navajo Phil Jackson,” taught her skills for competition on and off the court, using a hoop and ball in their front yard.
With costly basketball camps out of reach for many rural players, her father’s guidance gave Becenti a chance to develop her game close to home. That experience continues to shape her commitment to giving back.
Becenti’s success continued at a then-struggling Arizona State University, where she helped lead the Sun Devils to a 20-9 record in 1992 and an NCAA Tournament appearance for the first time in nine years. Her play also drew strong support from Navajo Nation fans who turned out for her games.
Known for her passing, Becenti compiled 396 assists and averaged 7.1 assists per game during her two seasons at ASU. Her 7.1 assists per game led the Pac-10 until Sabrina Ionescu surpassed the mark with a 7.7 average at Oregon.
Becenti earned two first-team All-Pac-10 selections and two honorable mention All-American honors before her induction into the Arizona State Hall of Fame in 2023. Her career also took her overseas, with stops in Sweden and Greece, but not without a struggle.
Becenti began having second thoughts until her father convinced her to board the plane and reminded her that this was her dream — a story that bleeds into how Becenti talks to the youth at various camps.
“You’re going to go through those rough times, but that’s where you come in mentally,” she said. “There were times I thought I couldn’t do it, but just through basketball, the love, the strength from my parents and people that encouraged me — that really helps to push you — and that’s why I try to encourage families to encourage their kids.”
Native American representation in athletics has grown, with current stars like Sydney Benally at BYU. During her playing career, Becenti often navigated spaces with few peers who shared her background. She also faced criticism for her tomboy style and short hair.
“Everyone was like, ‘That’s a boy,’” Becenti said. “I would be hurt, but my dad said that’s what the best thing about it is. It should motivate you because you can make them quiet. Later on, they’re going to figure out who you are and they’re going to be like, ‘Oh, that’s who she was,’ and you’re going to make a big difference.”
Now, Becenti uses that experience to reflect on her identity and how important it is to have representation on big stages as she carries on the work from those before her.
“I’m proud being an Indigenous woman and to carry on what I’ve been doing,” Becenti said. “I also want these kids to not be afraid. Maybe they’re like, ‘Wow, I want short hair.’ I believe it’s very powerful for all of us to make sure that we represent as Native American women and Indigenous people to be strong.”