Malia Kipp: Remembering The Lady Griz Legend & Her Legacy - Latest News

22 May, 2025

What defines a legacy? For Malia Kipp, the impact of her life and achievements, particularly within the world of basketball, resonates far beyond the court, leaving an indelible mark on Montana and its communities.

The news, delivered with a heavy heart, spread like wildfire across Montana. Malia Kipp, a name synonymous with resilience, skill, and trailblazing spirit, had passed away. The announcement, shared by her mother, Dee Ann Kipp, sent shockwaves through the sports world and beyond. Though the details surrounding her sudden departure remained private, the outpouring of grief and remembrance served as a testament to the profound influence she held.

Full Name	Barbara Malia Kipp
Date of Birth	Not Available
Date of Death	Not Available
Place of Birth	Browning, Montana
Nationality	American
Ethnicity	Blackfeet, Oneida, and Norwegian descent
Education	Browning High School (1992), University of Montana
Sport	Basketball
Position	Guard
Teams	Browning High School, University of Montana Lady Griz
Achievements and Honors	First Native American to play Division I women's basketball on a full scholarship in Montana, Four Big Sky Championship Rings, Montana Indian Hall of Fame inductee
Known For	Trailblazing athlete, Community leader, Role model, Humility, Kindness, Warrior Spirit.
Legacy	Creating lasting impact, breaking the barriers, inspiring the others, leave legacy of humility, kindness and friendship.
Reference	University of Montana

Born and raised on the Blackfeet Nation in Browning, Montana, Barbara Malia Kipp's story is one of breaking barriers and inspiring generations. Her athletic prowess was evident early on. As a standout player at Browning High School, she wasn't just a star; she was a force. This early promise set the stage for a remarkable collegiate career at the University of Montana, where she would etch her name into the history books.

Kipp made history as the first Montana tribal member to play NCAA Division I womens basketball on a full scholarship. This achievement was more than a personal victory; it was a symbol of progress and a beacon of hope for Native American youth. She wasn't just playing the game; she was changing it. She was a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of representation, demonstrating that anything is possible with dedication and drive.

Her time with the Montana Lady Griz was marked by success, and further solidified her status as a legend. She was a key player on the team, contributing to four Big Sky Championship wins. The rings she earned weren't just trophies; they were symbols of hard work, teamwork, and the culmination of a dream. The impact of her achievements extended beyond the court; she became an inspiration for young athletes, demonstrating the possibilities that lay within them, no matter their background.

News of her passing resonated deeply within the University of Montana community. The Lady Griz program, which she had been a part of, faced the tragedy with both sorrow and determination. Before their first game following her death, a moment of silence was held to honor Kipp's memory, a testament to her lasting influence on the team, the university, and the wider community. The game itself served as a poignant tribute, a reminder of the legacy she had built. The win itself was a symbolic offering, a nod to her competitive spirit.

Beyond the statistics and the championships, Malia Kipps impact was defined by the person she was. She leaves behind a legacy of humility, kindness, and friendship, as noted by those who knew her best. She possessed a "warrior spirit," a phrase that perfectly encapsulated her strength, resilience, and unwavering determination both on and off the court. This warrior spirit was evident in her approach to the game, her perseverance in overcoming obstacles, and her commitment to uplifting others.

The University of Montana recognized the importance of her legacy, planning to establish the Malia Kipp Memorial Scholarship in collaboration with the Kipp family. This scholarship will help ensure that her impact continues to live on. The scholarship is not just a monetary gift but an investment in the future, providing opportunities for others to follow in her footsteps. This scholarship is a permanent tribute to her legacy.

Robin Selvig, her former coach and a prominent figure in the Lady Griz program, spoke about her lasting impact. His words, filled with admiration and respect, served as a testament to her character and the profound effect she had on those around her. Selvig's words spoke of more than basketball skills, talking about the enduring legacy of an athlete who was a role model and a friend.

The documentary film "Native Ball: Legacy of a Trailblazer," produced by Family Theater Entertainment, offered a glimpse into Kipp's life and achievements. Airing on Montana PBS during Native American Heritage Month, the film highlighted her extraordinary journey. The documentary showcases her impact, and this ensures that her story will be preserved for future generations, offering inspiration and insight into the challenges and triumphs she experienced. The airing of the documentary served as a celebration of her life, and an opportunity to further recognize her contribution to sports and her community.

Kipps influence extended beyond the court and into the community. Basketball, for Malia, was more than just a sport; it was a means of empowerment, a platform for inspiration, and a way to connect with others. She used her platform to advocate for Native American youth and to promote the values of hard work, perseverance, and community. She was a role model, demonstrating the power of resilience and the importance of giving back.

Her induction into the Montana Indian Hall of Fame further cements her place in history. She was the first native female to play Division I basketball from Montana, a fact that reflects her trailblazing character. The induction was a tribute to her achievements, recognizing her contributions not just to sports but also to her community. The honor was a recognition of her legacy and a celebration of her significant influence in Montana.

The outpouring of support following her passing spoke volumes about the impact she had on countless lives. Former Lady Griz players and coaches attended her funeral in Browning, standing united in grief. Their presence served as a powerful tribute to the bonds she created and the profound influence she had on those she played with and mentored. It was a gathering of those whose lives she had touched, and a representation of her family.

Malia Kipp's story is a reminder that legacies are not just defined by statistics or accolades but by the lives we touch and the impact we make. In a world that often celebrates the superficial, Malia Kipp exemplified the importance of integrity, perseverance, and genuine human connection. Her memory will continue to inspire those who knew her, and those who will learn her story in the years to come. Her legacy is not just written in the record books, but in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to be touched by her indomitable spirit.

Her mother's simple but powerful words, "We are saddened to share with you the passing of our daughter, Malia Kipp," resonated across the state. While the world mourns her loss, it also celebrates the legacy of a trailblazer, a champion, a daughter, a friend, and a true inspiration. Her towering force and impact will forever live in Montana.

Those wishing to contribute to the Malia Kipp Memorial Scholarship or seeking more information are encouraged to contact Dan Ingram at the University of Montana. This is a chance to ensure that her spirit and commitment to excellence continue to inspire future generations.

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