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 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.
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