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Phil Jordon

One of The First Native Americans to Play in The NBA

Phil Jordon is one of the first Native Americans to play in the NBA. Phil's journey began at Whitworth University, where he led his team to a collegiate championship in 1954 and an AAU title in 1956. Known as the Flash, he was drafted into the NBA in 1956, where he went on to play seven seasons, consistently averaging double digits and competing alongside legends like Wayne Embry, Bill Russell, and Wilt Chamberlain. Tragically, he passed away in 1963, but his legacy continues. Accepting the honor is his sister, Shirley, and his daughter, Juliana Giese, who is an elder in the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians. Presenting Shirley and Juliana with a custom jersey and plaque is Judy DeFreitas, Expert Community Relations Specialist at the PG&E Company.