San Francisco (January 6, 2025) – The Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians is proud to share that Phil “The Flash” Jordon, the first Native American NBA basketball player, has been honored with the Golden State Warrior Impact Award. The recognition took place during the Sacramento Kings vs. Golden State Warriors game on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at the Chase Center in San Francisco. This extraordinary evening featured a cultural dance by the Nomlaki Weleaq Olkapna Dancers, bringing a powerful and moving representation of the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians’ rich heritage.
Phil Jordon’s daughter Juliana, alongside Shirley accepted the award on his behalf, honoring his incredible legacy in the NBA. Phil Jordon was a proud descendant of the Nomlaki and Wailaki tribes. He was drafted in the NBA in 1956 and went on to have a seven-year career. Over his seven-year career, he played for several teams, including the Cincinnati Royals, Detroit Pistons, New York Knicks, and St. Louis Hawks. His contributions to the sport and his legacy as the first Native American player in the NBA have made him an enduring symbol of inspiration for his tribes and Indian Country.
“We are deeply proud of Phil Jordon’s accomplishments in the NBA and the inspiration he continues to provide in Indian Country,” said Tribal Chairman Brandin Paya. “It is also an incredible honor to have the Golden State Warriors invite our dancers to share a piece of our culture through song and dance. This is truly a night to remember for the Nomlaki Tribe.”
To learn more about the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians, please visit https://paskenta-nsn.gov/.