GRAND FORKS (AP) -- Standing Rock tribal Chairman Charles Murphy says the University of North Dakota's Fighting Sioux nickname is not at the top of his administration's priorities right now but he's willing to talk about it if no deadlines are imposed.
In a letter to University System Chancellor William Goetz, Murphy said tribal members clearly are divided over the nickname and Indianhead logo.
The NCAA considers the nickname and logo hostile and abusive. The state Board of Higher Education plans to drop them unless the Standing Rock and Spirit Lake Sioux tribes sign off on long-term agreements.
Murphy said he's aware of the desire for a 30-year agreement but he said those types of conditions are "better discussed and agreed upon rather than stipulated."
His letter said he's ready to meet with board members if they're willing to talk about it without deadlines and stipulations.
