Three Schools Lose Appeals on Indian Mascots

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Despite a letter from one tribal leader in support of the Fighting Sioux nickname, North Dakota lost its appeal to the NCAA on Friday while Illinois and Indiana University of Pennsylvania didn't fare any better.

The governing body's executive committee rejected appeals from all three schools that would have allowed them to use Indian nicknames or images without penalty. Bradley, the fourth school with an appeal, became the nation's first to appear on a five-year watch list.

The NCAA's message was clear: It would not retreat from its policy banning the use of ''hostile'' and ''abusive'' Indian nicknames, mascots and imagery at championship events.

''The NCAA has a responsibility to make sure its events are treated with respect for all and making sure that the environment is fully respectful,'' NCAA president Myles Brand said during a conference call.