Category: NDN All-Star Info

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Basketball NDN All-Star Info NDN All-Stars Firsts Nomlaki Wailaki

A Trailblazer on the NBA Hardwood – NDN All-Star #9 Phil Jordon

NDN All-Stars FIRSTS - Phil Jordon

In the world of professional basketball, many players leave their mark on the court, but only a select few carve out a legacy that goes beyond the game. NDN All-Star #9 Phil Jordon (Wailaki/Nomlaki), the first Native American to play in the National Basketball Association (NBA), is one of those players. Jordon broke new ground during his basketball career in the 1950s and 1960s, opening doors for future generations with his talent and love for the game.

A Rising Star

Born in 1933, Phil Jordon grew up in a small town in California, where he first developed his passion for basketball. His natural athleticism and towering 6-foot-10 frame made him a dominant force on the court early on. After high school, Jordon refined his skills at Whitworth College in Spokane, Washington, where he quickly became a standout player. His combination of size, agility, and scoring ability caught the attention of NBA scouts, and in 1956, he was drafted into the league—a historic moment for Native American athletes.

Making History in the NBA

Jordon’s NBA journey began with the New York Knicks, where he brought energy and versatility to the team. He quickly earned a reputation as a reliable center, known for his rebounding, shot-blocking, and ability to score in the paint. His career spanned several teams, including the Detroit Pistons, Cincinnati Royals, and St. Louis Hawks, and he played alongside some of the era’s biggest stars.

One of Jordon’s most memorable performances came during the 1961 NBA season when he scored a career high 33 points—displaying his scoring ability and establishing him as a force to be reckoned with. At a time when the NBA was still evolving, Jordon’s skill set and competitive spirit set him apart.

A Role Model and Trailblazer

Beyond his on-court achievements, Jordon’s impact as the first Native American to play in the NBA is profound. He proved that talent and hard work could pave the way for success, regardless of background. His presence in the league was a reminder that basketball could be a platform for representation and pride for Native communities.

Jordon’s accomplishments also opened doors for future Native American athletes, showing them that a professional basketball career was within reach. Players like NDN All-Star #3 Shoni Schimmel (Umatilla), NDN All-Star #15 Angel Goodrich (Cherokee), NDN All-Star #63 Kyrie Irving (Standing Rock Sioux), and NDN All-Star #108 Lindy Waters III (Kiowa/Cherokee) have continued to build on the foundation Jordon helped lay, proudly carrying the torch for Native representation in professional basketball.

Remembering His Legacy

Though Phil Jordon’s name may not be as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, his contributions to the game remain significant. He was more than just a skilled center—he was a pioneer who broke barriers and showed the world what Native athletes could achieve at the highest level.

Looking back on his career, it’s important to celebrate the positive impact he had, both on and off the court. NDN All-Star $9 Phil Jordon’s legacy lives on, not just in the stat books, but in the hearts of those who continue to draw inspiration from his journey. He will always be remembered as a trailblazer who made history and left an indelible mark on the game of basketball.

 

Bill Black, founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr. (Quah-Lee-Lah).
Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

Bill Black is the creator and “General Manager of NDN All-Stars, celebrating great Native American athletes past and present.  He is a first generation descendant of the Okanogan Band of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and resides in Omak, WA.

#NDNAllstars #Phil Jordon #Wailaki #Nomlaki #basketball #NBA

If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.

Thank you for your support!

 

 

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Chippewa Hockey NDN All-Star Info NDN All-Stars Firsts

NDN All-Star #61 – Clarence “Taffy” Abel (Chippewa) – Hockey’s First Indian!

NDN All-Stars "FIRSTS" Taffy Abel Header

NDN All-Star #61 Clarence “Taffy” Abel (Chippewa)was a powerful force in early hockey and the first Native American to play in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, in 1900, Abel grew up surrounded by hockey and quickly made the sport a big part of his life. With his size and strength—standing over six feet tall and weighing more than 200 pounds—Abel played a style that helped him stand out. He became known for his aggressive but skilled way of defending, which led to exciting opportunities to play on bigger stages.

One of Abel’s first major achievements was joining the U.S. Olympic hockey team in 1924. This team competed in the very first Winter Olympics in Chamonix, France. Abel’s strength and skill on defense helped the U.S. team win the silver medal, bringing attention to both American hockey and Abel himself. Not only was Abel the first Native American to participate in the Winter Olympics, but he was also selected by his teammates to be the US flag bearer – another Native American first! After this, professional hockey teams in the NHL took notice.

Abel’s big break into the NHL came when he signed with the New York Rangers in 1926. His impact on the ice was immediate. Abel’s powerful playing style fit perfectly with the Rangers’ defense, making him a favorite among fans. As the first Native American to play in the NHL, Abel also created a lasting legacy beyond his skill. This made his career even more meaningful, showing young athletes from different backgrounds that they, too, could compete at the highest levels of hockey.

Abel’s time with the Rangers was filled with success. One of the highlights was the 1928 season when the Rangers won their first Stanley Cup. Abel was a big part of this victory, playing defense with a mix of strength and skill that made it difficult for opponents to score. After his time with the Rangers, he moved to the Chicago Blackhawks in 1929. He continued to be an important player for Chicago, helping to strengthen their defense. In 1934, Abel and the Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup again, adding to his career’s list of achievements.

Throughout his career, Abel was known for his determination and reliability. He played tough and consistently, and his defensive style became a model for future players. Abel showed that a defenseman could be both physically tough and skilled, setting an example for how the position could be played. This influence on the game made Abel a trailblazer, and his success opened up new paths for future players.

After retiring from hockey in 1934, Abel returned to his hometown of Sault Ste. Marie. He stayed active in the hockey community, passing on his knowledge of the game. His legacy continued as more Native American players followed in his footsteps, with Abel’s story showing how much could be achieved through skill and dedication.

Clarence “Taffy” Abel passed away in 1964, but his contributions to hockey are still remembered. He was honored posthumously by being inducted into the United States Hockey Hall of Fame in 1973. His story lives on as a reminder of what’s possible in hockey and serves as an example for young athletes who dream of making it to the NHL.

NDN All-Star #61 Taffy Abel’s place in hockey history is unforgettable. As both a pioneering Native American player and a dedicated athlete, he’s remembered for his love of the game and his many accomplishments on the ice. His story continues to inspire players today, and his legacy shines brightly for future generations who share his passion for hockey.

 

Bill Black, founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr. (Quah-Lee-Lah).
Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

Bill Black is the creator and “General Manager of NDN All-Stars, celebrating great Native American athletes past and present.  He is a first generation descendant of the Okanogan Band of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and resides in Omak, WA.

#NDNAllstars #TaffyAbel #Chippewa #NHL #hockey #NYRangers #ChicagoBlackhawks #FIRSTS

If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.

Thank you for your support!

 

 

 

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Boxing Cherokee NDN All-Star Info Video Archeology

Video Archeology – “Dempsey”

NDN All-Stars "Video Archeology" Movie Of The Week graphic

The 1983 movie “Dempsey”, with Treat Williams playing boxing legend NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey (Cherokee), is an exciting look into the world of 1920s boxing. Watching this film feels like stepping back into a time when boxing was raw and tough, and so were the fighters. Jack Dempsey had a rough life and had to work hard to make a name for himself. This movie really brings his story to life.

From the start, Treat Williams totally nails the role. He makes Dempsey look like a fighter who’s hungry to win and willing to push through anything to get there. The story opens with Dempsey fighting in small mining towns, where the fights were rough and not always fair. The smoky arenas, loud crowds, and scrappy fighters make it easy to feel the atmosphere of those early days.

“Dempsey” doesn’t just show us the boxer; it shows us the man. The movie dives into Dempsey’s struggles, both in and out of the ring. We see his relationship with his wife, Estelle Taylor, played by Sally Kellerman. Their marriage is rocky, which makes sense when you think about how intense his career was. The movie keeps the focus on boxing but gives us just enough of his personal life to show that it wasn’t easy for Dempsey to balance love and fame.

The best part of the movie is definitely the boxing scenes. Even though it’s a TV movie, the fights are intense and realistic. You can tell Treat Williams put a lot into these scenes, making them feel brutal and authentic. One standout moment is Dempsey’s famous fight with Jess Willard, known as “The Fight of the Century.” The movie shows this fight in all its hard-hitting detail, with every punch feeling intense. It’s clear that Dempsey wasn’t just about skill; he fought with everything he had, pushing through pain to come out on top.

Williams plays Dempsey as a tough, determined guy who fights like he has nothing to lose. The nickname “Manassa Mauler” fits him perfectly—he’s fierce and relentless in the ring. But Williams doesn’t make him look like a flawless hero; instead, he’s a regular guy who faced tough times and worked his way up. He fought hard, and you can see that in every scene.

One thing I wish the movie had done better is cover some important moments in Dempsey’s life. For instance, Dempsey’s choice not to serve in World War I made a lot of people upset back then. The film mentions it, but it doesn’t dig deep into how that choice affected him and his reputation. Some of the struggles he had after his boxing career are also just briefly mentioned, leaving some questions unanswered.

Even with these small flaws, “Dempsey” is a solid and interesting movie, especially for a TV production. It shows the highs and lows of an American sports hero. By the end, you see Dempsey as more than just a fighter—you see him as someone who pushed through a tough life to achieve greatness in a tough sport.

If you’re into sports movies or boxing history, “Dempsey” is definitely worth checking out. Treat Williams really brings NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey to life, making him seem like a real, relatable person. This movie may not be as polished as a big-budget film, but it’s perfect for a story about an underdog like Dempsey. If you want to know what it was like to be a champion back in the early 1900s, this movie gives a great look at the life of one of boxing’s biggest legends.

Leave us a comment and let us know what you think of “Dempsey”, the movie and the man.

 

 

Bill Black, founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr. (Quah-Lee-Lah).
Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

Bill Black is the creator and “General Manager of NDN All-Stars, celebrating great Native American athletes past and present.  He is a first generation descendant of the Okanogan Band of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and resides in Omak, WA.

#NDNAllstars #Cherokee #JackDempsey #VideoArcheology #boxing

If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.

Thank you for your support!

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NDN All-Star Info NDN All-Star Podcast Announcement

Podcast Interview featuring NDN All-Stars

Last month, I had the privilege of appearing on the “Wrestling With Heels On” podcast, presented by the Sports History Network. I was honored to chat with the host – Ariel Gonzalez. We chatted about various things related to Native Americans in sports. Ariel asked me some terrific questions, and I did my best to answer them.

The opinions expressed are my own, and – as I said in the interview, I do not speak for all of Indian Country.

I would like to share this interview with you here. If you are fan of big time wrestling, check out “Wrestling With Heels On”! (Even if you are not so into wrestling, this interview is worth a listen. We talk about more than wrestling…)

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Basketball Navajo NDN All-Star Info NDN All-Star Profile NDN All-Stars Firsts

“FIRSTS” – NDN All-Star #46 Ryneldi Becenti, Basketball Pioneer

NDN All-Stars "FIRSTS" Header - Ryneldi Becenti

It’s time for another installment of NDN All-Stars “Firsts”.

In today’s blog post, we are featuring women’s basketball pioneer NDN All-Star #46 Ryneldi Becenti (Navajo). As a member of the Navajo Nation, she became the first Native American woman to play in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA).

Becenti’s basketball career started at Window Rock High School, where she quickly stood out. Her skills earned her a scholarship to Scottsdale Community College, and later to Arizona State University (ASU). At ASU, she became a team leader and earned All-Pac-10 honors. Her performance in college showed that she could compete at the highest levels of women’s basketball and set the stage for her professional career.

In 1997, Becenti made history by signing with the Phoenix Mercury, becoming the first Native American woman to play in the WNBA. Even though her time in the WNBA was short, it was groundbreaking. She inspired many young Native American athletes who saw her as a role model and a path to their dreams in professional sports.

After her time in the WNBA, Becenti played professionally in France, Sweden, and Greece. (Imagine – a kid from the Navajo reservation travelling around the world playing the game she loves!) Her international career showed her versatility and skill as a player and her ability to adapt to different styles of play. She was known for her excellent ball-handling, court vision, and leadership. These qualities made her a valuable player and a trailblazer in women’s basketball.

Beyond her basketball achievements, Ryneldi Becenti has contributed significantly off the court. She works to promote sports and education among Native American youth – speaking and coaching at clinics and camps. Her efforts to give back to her community and inspire the next generation of athletes reflect her commitment to using her platform as a basketball pioneer for positive change. NDN All-Star #46 Ryneldi Becenti’s legacy is not just her basketball career but also her role as a pioneer and advocate for diversity in sports. Her story shows the impact one person can have in breaking barriers and inspiring future generations.

 

 

Bill Black, founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr. (Quah-Lee-Lah).
Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

Bill Black is the creator and “General Manager of NDN All-Stars, celebrating great Native American athletes past and present.  He is a first generation descendant of the Okanogan Band of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and resides in Omak, WA.

#NDNAllstars #RyneldiBecenti #Navajo #WNBA #basketball #PhoenixMercury

If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.

Thank you for your support!

 

 

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Baseball NDN All-Star Info NDN All-Star Profile Sac & Fox

NDN All-Star #16 – Jim Thorpe on the Baseball Diamond

NDN All-Star #16 Jim Thorpe (Sac & Fox)

Today, let’s talk about the greatest athlete of the 20th century – NDN All-Star #16 Jim Thorpe (Sac & Fox), a legendary athlete who wasn’t just good at one sport but excelled in many! You might know him for his incredible achievements in football and the Olympics, and he even played on a barnstorming basketball team in the days before the NBA. But did you know he also made a mark in Major League Baseball?

First things first, let’s talk about who Jim Thorpe was. Born in 1887, he was a Native American from the Sac and Fox Nation in Oklahoma. Thorpe’s journey to fame began with his outstanding skills in track and field during his college years. But it wasn’t just running and jumping that he was good at; he had a natural talent for baseball too.

In 1913, Jim Thorpe joined the New York Giants Major League Baseball team. Thorpe played as an outfielder, showing off his incredible speed and agility. Even though baseball wasn’t his first love, he quickly adapted and became a solid player for the Giants. Fans were amazed at his powerful hits and lightning-fast sprints on the field.

One of Thorpe’s most memorable moments in baseball happened during the 1917 season. Playing for the Cincinnati Reds, Ol’ Jim hit home runs in three consecutive games. And this was back in the days before home runs were a common occurrence!

Talking about Ol’ Jim’s power at the plate, one story from his time playing baseball goes like this:

“Thorpe once hit home runs into three states during one game! First, he homered over the left field fence into Oklahoma. Then he homered over the right field fence into Arkansas.  And finally, he hit an inside-the-park home run that never left Texas!”

While that tale MAY be a little exaggerated (we are not entirely sure…) it does show how revered and well thought of that Jim Thorpe, the baseball player, was during his time on the diamond.

Despite his baseball success, Thorpe’s heart truly belonged to other sports, and he eventually left the MLB to pursue his passion for football. But let’s not forget the impact he made on the diamond. Jim Thorpe’s baseball career might have been short, but it left an enduring legacy, showcasing his incredible versatility as an athlete.

NDN All-Star #16 Jim Thorpe wasn’t just a one-sport wonder – he was a multi-talented athlete who could conquer any field or sport, including the baseball diamond. His time in Major League Baseball might have been relatively brief  (he played in 7 major league seasons), but the memories of his lightning-fast sprints, powerful hits, three-game home run streak, and other impressive feats on the baseball field continue to inspire young baseball players to this day. So, the next time you watch a baseball game, remember the extraordinary NDN All-Star #16 Jim Thorpe and the mark he left on America’s favorite pastime!

 

Bill Black, founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr. (Quah-Lee-Lah).
Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

Bill Black is the creator and “General Manager of NDN All-Stars, celebrating great Native American athletes past and present.  He is a first generation descendant of the Okanogan Band of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and resides in Omak, WA.

#NDNAllstars #JimThorpe #Sac&Fox #baseball #NYGiants #MLB #CincinnatiReds #BostonBraves

If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.

Thank you for your support!

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Boxing Iroquois NDN All-Star Info Video Archeology

Video Archeology – NDN All-Star #32 Henry Armstrong in “Keep Punching”

NDN All-Stars "Video Archeology" Movie Of The Week graphic

Today’s installment of Video Archeology is a bit different.  It’s not a biography, or a game or a retrospective.  Today, I have a gem for you – a movie starring one of our NDN All-Stars!

If you’re looking for an old-school boxing movie that’s a bit off the beaten path, “Keep Punching” (1939) is one you should check out. It stars NDN All-Star #32 Henry Armstrong (Iroquois), a real boxing legend from the era, and follows the story of a young boxer, Dave, who fights his way from humble beginnings to the top. The plot may seem familiar—it’s a classic underdog story—but what makes it special is the time period and Armstrong’s presence.

The film gives us a glimpse into what it was like for minority athletes during the 1930s. Armstrong’s own history as a trailblazing fighter, combined with his portrayal of Dave, gives the movie a sense of authenticity that feels rare for the time. The boxing scenes, although not as polished as what you’d see today, have a raw energy to them because of Armstrong’s real-life skills in the ring.

The characters around Dave—his trainer and fellow fighters—create a solid sense of community and camaraderie, which adds to the emotional weight of the story. You really feel like you’re rooting for Dave, not just because he’s good in the ring but because he has people who believe in him.

Sure, the dialogue might come off as a little corny to a modern audience, and the production quality is far from today’s standards, but that’s part of what makes “Keep Punching” an interesting watch. It’s a window into a different time, with a simplicity that makes you appreciate the journey these characters go through. And the fact that it stars a real-life sports hero gives it an edge that many other films don’t have.

Overall, I’d recommend “Keep Punching” if you’re a fan of boxing films or of NDN All-Star #32 Henry Armstrong. It’s a little rough around the edges, but it’s got heart, and Armstrong’s presence makes it more than just another boxing movie. Plus, it’s a reminder of how hard some people had to fight—not just in the ring, but in life.

 

 

Bill Black, founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr. (Quah-Lee-Lah).
Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

Bill Black is the creator and “General Manager of NDN All-Stars, celebrating great Native American athletes past and present.  He is a first generation descendant of the Okanogan Band of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and resides in Omak, WA.

#NDNAllstars #VideoArcheology #NativeAmerican #Sports #History #HenryArmstrong #Iroquois #boxing

If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.

Thank you for your support!

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Boxing Cherokee NDN All-Star Info NDN All-Star Podcast Announcement Video Archeology

Video Archeology – NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey – This Is Your Life

NDN All-Stars "Video Archeology" Movie Of The Week graphic

Why You Should Watch the “This Is Your Life” Episode Featuring Jack Dempsey

Just the other day I came across an old black-and-white episode of “This Is Your Life” featuring the legendary NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey (Cherokee) . I love classic TV shows, especially ones that give you a peek into the lives of people who made history. This episode, which aired on November 1, 1950, has stuck with me ever since, and I think you should check it out too. Here’s why.

First off, there’s something really special about “This Is Your Life.” The show had a way of telling someone’s life story that was both emotional and surprising. They would bring in long-lost friends, family members, and other important people from the guest’s past, creating a powerful experience for both the person featured and the audience. It’s the kind of TV that really makes you feel something, and Jack Dempsey’s episode is a great example of this.

For those who might not know, NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey was one of the greatest boxers ever. He was the World Heavyweight Champion from 1919 to 1926, during what’s often called the “Golden Age of Boxing.” Nicknamed the “Manassa Mauler,” Dempsey was known for his fierce fighting style and incredible power. But what really made him famous was how he helped turn boxing into a major sport, drawing huge crowds and earning big money for his fights. (His bout with Georges Carpentier – who makes an appearance – was the first Million Dollar Gate in boxing history!)

Something that struck me when I watched this episode is just how humble and gracious Dempsey was. Despite all his fame and success, he comes across as a genuinely kind and down-to-earth guy. The show’s host, Ralph Edwards, does a great job of getting Dempsey to open up about his life, showing us the real person behind the famous boxer.

One of the best parts of the episode is when Dempsey is reunited with old friends and rivals from his boxing days. They are called up one by one to enter the set – a boxing ring set up just for the show. These moments are so real and honest—you just don’t see stuff like this on TV anymore. When one of his early trainers speaks before he makes his appearance, you can see the respect and recognition in Dempsey’s eyes. It’s a powerful moment, and a reminder that even the toughest champions are shaped by the people around them, and that no one gets to the top on their own.

Another great moment is when Dempsey’s family members join the show, including his wife and siblings. (He even picks up and holds his two granddaughters during the show…) Their stories give us a glimpse into Dempsey’s life, his struggles, and how he rose to fame. These personal details show that Dempsey wasn’t just a great fighter—he was also a loving husband, brother, and son. The sincerity and love in these interactions make it clear that Dempsey’s strength wasn’t just physical but also emotional and moral.

But what makes this episode truly special is that – as you watch, you feel like you’re right there with Dempsey, experiencing the ups and downs of his interactions with many people from his past. The show’s format, with surprise guests and heartfelt stories, creates a sense of closeness that’s rare on TV. By the end of the episode, you feel like you really know Jack Dempsey—not just as a boxer, but as a person.

I also have to mention how well the episode holds up, considering it was filmed in 1950. While some of the dialogue is a bit “cheesy” in an old-timey way, the black-and-white footage gives it a classic feel, and the reactions of the live audience add to the authenticity.

So, why should you watch this episode of “This Is Your Life”? Because it’s more than just a tribute to a sports legend. It’s a celebration of a life lived with passion, determination, and humility. It’s a reminder that behind every public figure is a private person with their own story, shaped by the people they’ve met and the challenges they’ve faced. In a world filled with shallow content, this show stands out as something meaningful and moving.

In the end, “This Is Your Life” does exactly what it aims to do: it brings to life an amazing person in a way that still resonates today. Watching NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey’s episode is like taking a trip back in time, and trust me, it’s a trip worth taking.


 

 

Bill Black, founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr. (Quah-Lee-Lah).
Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

Bill Black is the creator and “General Manager of NDN All-Stars, celebrating great Native American athletes past and present.  He is a first generation descendant of the Okanogan Band of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and resides in Omak, WA.

#NDNAllstars #VideoArcheology #NativeAmerican #Sports #History #JackDempsey #Cherokee #boxing

If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.

Thank you for your support!

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NDN All-Star Info Video Archeology

Introducing “NDN All-Stars: Video Archeology” – A Journey Through Native American Athletic History

NDN All-Stars "Video Archeology" Movie Of The Week graphic

Welcome to the inaugural post of my new blog series, “NDN All-Stars: Video Archeology.” As a passionate advocate for celebrating Native American excellence in sports, I am really excited to dive into this project, where I’ll be uncovering and showcasing some of the most extraordinary moments captured on video featuring the incredible athletes from my NDN All-Stars roster at ndnallstars.com.

What to Expect from “NDN All-Stars: Video Archeology”

Through hours of searching, I will find videos scattered across the internet that highlight the amazing talent, dedication, and passion of Native American athletes who have left their mark in various sports. Whether it’s a breathtaking game-winning shot, a powerful run that led to a victory, a well-crafted documentary, or an inspiring interview, these videos offer a window into the rich athletic heritage of Native American sports personalities.

In each blog post, I’ll share a handpicked video that features one of my NDN All-Stars. Along with the video, I’ll provide a brief description, offering context and background on the video. This will be followed by my personal reflections, where I’ll dive into why this particular clip stands out and what it represents in the broader narrative of Native American achievements in sports.

Why This Series Matters

“NDN All-Stars: Video Archeology” is more than just a collection of cool sports clips—it’s about preserving and amplifying the stories of Native American athletes who have often been overlooked in mainstream sports media. These athletes are trailblazers, role models, and inspirations, and their stories deserve to be told and retold.

For too long, the contributions of Native American athletes have been marginalized or forgotten. This series aims to change that by bringing these stories back to the forefront, making them accessible to everyone, especially the younger generation who may not be aware of the rich legacy of Native excellence in sports.

Join the Journey

Each video shared in this series will come with a direct link, allowing you to experience these moments firsthand. I invite you not just to watch, but to engage—share your thoughts, comments, and reactions. Let’s start a conversation about the impact these athletes have had and continue to have on the sports world.

By connecting with these videos, you’ll be part of a growing community that celebrates and honors the contributions of Native American athletes. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a history buff, or someone who enjoys a good inspirational story, “NDN All-Stars: Video Archeology” has something for you.

Got Your Popcorn?

I’m excited to start this journey with you. Through “NDN All-Stars: Video Archeology,” we’ll uncover the hidden gems of Native American sports history together, one video at a time. This is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the legends who have paved the way, and to inspire future generations of Native athletes to continue the legacy of excellence.

So, stay tuned, and get ready to dive into a world of incredible sports moments. The first video in the series is coming soon, and I can’t wait to share it with you. Let’s celebrate NDN All-Stars—past, present, and future—together.

 

 

Bill Black, founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr. (Quah-Lee-Lah).
Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

Bill Black is the creator and “General Manager of NDN All-Stars, celebrating great Native American athletes past and present.  He is a first generation descendant of the Okanogan Band of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and resides in Omak, WA.

#NDNAllstars #VideoArcheology #NativeAmerican #Sports #History

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NDN All-Star #103 Frank Pierce: A Native American Olympic Pioneer

 

NDN All-Star #103 Frank Pierce: A Native American Olympic Pioneer

Looking back at Olympic history, many athletes have left their mark with their unique stories and achievements. One of these athletes who has faded into the mists of time is NDN All-Star #103 Frank Pierce (Seneca), the first Native American to compete in the Olympic Games.

A Talented Runner

Frank Pierce was born in 1883. Growing up in western New York, he showed that he was a great runner from a young age. Running wasn’t just a sport for Pierce; it was a way of life. His diminutive size (5-6 and 125 lbs.) made him an ideal distance runner. He trained hard, often running barefoot on tough surfaces, which helped him become strong and resilient.

Early Achievements

Frank Pierce first came to national attention in 1901 when he recorded a time of 15:57.4 for 3 miles. He also finished second that year in the AAU 5-mile championship, followed by a 3rd-place finish in the same event in 1902. These early achievements showed his potential and dedication as a distance runner.

The Olympic Marathon

At the St. Louis Olympic Games in 1904, Frank Pierce represented the Pastime AC of New York City, and entered the marathon. The race was very tough, with a difficult course and harsh conditions. It was filled with a lot of craziness. Here is an article telling that story: https://www.runnersworld.com/runners-stories/a37039437/1904-olympic-marathon/ )

Unfortunately, Pierce did not finish the race, and the St. Louis newspapers did not mention him in any of their summaries. Despite this, just being in the Olympics was a huge achievement for Pierce and a significant breakthrough for Native American athletes.

Remembering Frank Pierce

Today, we remember NDN All-Star #103 Frank Pierce not just as an Olympic competitor but as someone who brought attention to the athletic talents of Native Americans on the world stage. I hope that sharing his story will inspire young athletes everywhere.

Mystery Man

Not much is known about Frank Pierce after his appearance in the Olympics. (At least I cannot find much information on him after that time.) Did he continue to run? Did he help coach young athletes? If you have information about his later life, please leave a comment below to help us create a fuller picture of an Indian athlete that certainly deserves more notoriety and recognition.

 

 

Bill Black, founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr. (Quah-Lee-Lah).
Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

Bill Black is the creator and “General Manager of NDN All-Stars, celebrating great Native American athletes past and present.  He is a first generation descendant of the Okanogan Band of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and resides in Omak, WA.

 

#NDNAllstars #Olympics #track&field #FrankPierce #marathon #running #Seneca

If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.

Thank you for your support!