Judge temporarily blocks higher ed officials from changing UND's Fighting Sioux nickname

By DALE WETZEL , Associated Press

Last update: November 10, 2009 - 10:37 PM

BISMARCK, N.D. - A judge has temporarily blocked higher education officials from changing the University of North Dakota's Fighting Sioux nickname.

The president of North Dakota's Board of Higher Education, Richie Smith, said Tuesday that the order could delay the university's efforts to join the Summit League and re-establish its football rivalry with North Dakota State University.

Smith says he'll talk with the state attorney general about challenging the order, which was issued Monday.

The dispute has its origins in the NCAA's August 2005 declaration that the Fighting Sioux nickname and Indian head logo should be abolished.

The judge's ruling came after a lawsuit was filed by eight Spirit Lake Sioux tribal members who support the nickname.

Recent Gophers stories

Joshua scores 18 points to lead North Carolina A&T past Middle Tennessee 65-56 - November 10, 2009

Joshua scores 18 points to lead North Carolina A&T past Middle Tennessee 65-56 - Dwane Joshua had 18 points and two others scored in double figures as North Carolina A&T beat Middle Tennessee 65-56 on Monday night. More