NDN All-Stars - Celebrating Great Native American Athletes of the Past and Present

Bill Black
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In each episode, we will discuss the impact of one of our NDN All-Stars. We will share their bios, their accomplishments, and maybe one or two bits of trivia to spice things up. Our goal is to make sure that these great athletes are remembered and honored for their contributions to the proud history of Native Americans everywhere.

  1. 3d ago

    This Week in NDN All-Stars History: August 23–29, 2026

    NDN All-Stars is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear. EPISODE SUMMARY This week in NDN All-Stars history, a nineteen-year-old catcher steps onto a Major League Baseball field for the very first time — beginning a career that will eventually include ten Gold Gloves, fourteen All-Star selections, two Most Valuable Player Awards, two World Series championships, and a place in Cooperstown. That young catcher is Choctaw legend Johnny Bench. But there’s much more to discover from August 23 through August 29. Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara boxing great Virgil Hill scores a first-round TKO. Cherokee heavyweight Jack Dempsey earns a fifth-round stoppage. Inupiaq basketball star Alissa Pili signs with the Los Angeles Sparks for the remainder of the WNBA season. Iroquois great Henry Armstrong adds more victories to his remarkable boxing career — and steps into the ring against Sugar Ray Robinson. Mohawk race car driver Dexter Stacey carries an Every Child Matters paint scheme honoring the survivors and victims of Indigenous residential schools. Navajo and San Felipe soccer player Madison Hammond scores the first NWSL goal of her career — and it proves to be the match-winner against her former club. Cherokee pitcher Early Wynn throws a one-hit shutout. Salish and Kootenai boxing pioneer Marvin Camel earns another victory. And Cherokee slugger Bob Johnson drives in six runs in a single inning. Travel back with NDN All-Stars as we bring great Native athletes from the past and present back into the spotlight for new generations. This episode covers August 23 through August 29. SUPPORT NDN ALL-STARS 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. NDN ALL-STARS BACKGROUND Hey there—I'm Bill Black, and welcome to the NDN All-Stars Podcast. If this is your first time hearing about us, let me tell you what we’re all about. This podcast is where Native sports history comes alive. Each episode shines a spotlight on the great Native American athletes you should know—past and present. From Hall of Famers to hometown heroes, we tell the stories of Native athletes who made their mark—on the field, on the court, and in history. We keep it real. No sugar-coating. No museum talk. Just straight-up stories told with pride and purpose—because representation matters, and these All-Stars deserve to be remembered right. Some episodes are deep dives into a single athlete’s life. Others bring on guests—historians, authors, even the athletes themselves—who help us connect the dots between culture, identity, and achievement. Whether you’re Native, a sports fan, a history buff, or just curious—this podcast will give you a new perspective on what greatness really looks like. So if you're ready to learn, laugh, and maybe even get a little fired up—hit that follow button and join the team. You can find more stories, merch, and updates at NDNAllStars.com. And be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube—just search for NDN All-Stars and you’ll find us. NDN All-Stars – Promoting Great Native Athletes – Past & Present! Mentioned in this episode: Sports History Network Theme Song This theme song was produced by Ron "Tyke" Oliver of Music Meets Sportz https://sites.google.com/view/sportsfanztastic/sports-history-network?authuser=0

    This Week in NDN All-Stars History: August 23–29, 2026

  2. Aug 16

    This Week in NDN All-Stars History: August 16–22, 2026

    NDN All-Stars is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear. EPISODE SUMMARY This week in NDN All-Stars history, one date steals the show. On August 18 alone, five Native sports stories unfold across three different sports. Shinnecock golfer Oscar Bunn defeats legendary golfer Harry Vardon. Cherokee boxer Jack Dempsey begins his professional career. Sac and Fox legend Jim Thorpe makes another move in his Major League Baseball journey. And boxing greats Henry Armstrong and Joe Louis both score victories. But that’s only part of the week. Henry Armstrong captures the welterweight championship. Navajo and Yaqui MMA fighter Waachim Spiritwolf earns a second-round TKO. Cherokee pitcher Robbie Ray records his 1,000th Major League strikeout. Lakota pitcher Bobby Madritsch earns his third Major League victory. Ojibwe great Charles “Chief” Bender throws a one-hitter. Salish and Kootenai boxing pioneer Marvin Camel adds three victories to our calendar. And Ponca and Otoe heavyweight Tommy Morrison closes out the week with a second-round TKO. Travel back with NDN All-Stars as we bring great Native athletes from the past and present back into the spotlight for new generations. SUPPORT NDN ALL-STARS 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. NDN ALL-STARS BACKGROUND Hey there—I'm Bill Black, and welcome to the NDN All-Stars Podcast. If this is your first time hearing about us, let me tell you what we’re all about. This podcast is where Native sports history comes alive. Each episode shines a spotlight on the great Native American athletes you should know—past and present. From Hall of Famers to hometown heroes, we tell the stories of Native athletes who made their mark—on the field, on the court, and in history. We keep it real. No sugar-coating. No museum talk. Just straight-up stories told with pride and purpose—because representation matters, and these All-Stars deserve to be remembered right. Some episodes are deep dives into a single athlete’s life. Others bring on guests—historians, authors, even the athletes themselves—who help us connect the dots between culture, identity, and achievement. Whether you’re Native, a sports fan, a history buff, or just curious—this podcast will give you a new perspective on what greatness really looks like. So if you're ready to learn, laugh, and maybe even get a little fired up—hit that follow button and join the team. You can find more stories, merch, and updates at NDNAllStars.com. And be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube—just search for NDN All-Stars and you’ll find us. NDN All-Stars – Promoting Great Native Athletes – Past & Present! Mentioned in this episode: Sports History Network Theme Song This theme song was produced by Ron "Tyke" Oliver of Music Meets Sportz https://sites.google.com/view/sportsfanztastic/sports-history-network?authuser=0

    This Week in NDN All-Stars History: August 16–22, 2026

  3. Aug 9

    This Week in NDN All-Stars History | August 9–15 | Rudy York, Billy Mills, Tom Longboat & Shoni Schimmel

    NDN All-Stars is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear. EPISODE SUMMARY What happens when one swing changes everything at Yankee Stadium? That's where this week's journey through Indian All-Stars History begins. Join us as we look back at the week of August 9 through August 15, where Native athletes deliver unforgettable performances across baseball, boxing, track and field, basketball, gymnastics, and motorsports. This week's stories include: Rudy York delivering the game-winning three-run home run against the New York Yankees.Ashton Locklear capturing gold on the uneven bars while helping Team USA win the Pacific Rim Gymnastics Championships.Adrian Houser battling through illness to strike out ten batters and earn a Major League victory.Billy Mills setting a new United States record in the ten-thousand meters.Tom Longboat defeating both relay teams and legendary English runner Alfred Shrubb in two remarkable distance races.Shoni Schimmel scoring twenty points in a single quarter, one of the greatest scoring bursts in WNBA history.Joe Hipp winning the final fight of his professional boxing career.Clarence "Taffy" Abel becoming the first American-born player to establish himself as a regular in the National Hockey League.Virgil Hill, Marvin Camel, Henry Armstrong, Joe Lewis, and George "Comanche Boy" Tahduwahnipah adding more memorable moments to their remarkable careers.Dexter Stacey continuing his climb in the NASCAR Pinty's Series with his best finish at Trois-Rivières. SUPPORT NDN ALL-STARS 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. NDN ALL-STARS BACKGROUND Hey there—I'm Bill Black, and welcome to the NDN All-Stars Podcast. If this is your first time hearing about us, let me tell you what we’re all about. This podcast is where Native sports history comes alive. Each episode shines a spotlight on the great Native American athletes you should know—past and present. From Hall of Famers to hometown heroes, we tell the stories of Native athletes who made their mark—on the field, on the court, and in history. We keep it real. No sugar-coating. No museum talk. Just straight-up stories told with pride and purpose—because representation matters, and these All-Stars deserve to be remembered right. Some episodes are deep dives into a single athlete’s life. Others bring on guests—historians, authors, even the athletes themselves—who help us connect the dots between culture, identity, and achievement. Whether you’re Native, a sports fan, a history buff, or just curious—this podcast will give you a new perspective on what greatness really looks like. So if you're ready to learn, laugh, and maybe even get a little fired up—hit that follow button and join the team. You can find more stories, merch, and updates at NDNAllStars.com. And be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube—just search for NDN All-Stars and you’ll find us. NDN All-Stars – Promoting Great Native Athletes – Past & Present!

    This Week in NDN All-Stars History | August 9–15 | Rudy York, Billy Mills, Tom Longboat & Shoni Schimmel

  4. Aug 2

    This Week in NDN All-Stars History | August 2–8 | Henry Armstrong, Rudy York, Willie Stargell & Brett Favre

    NDN All-Stars is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear. EPISODE SUMMARY What happens when a rookie who isn't even a catcher is suddenly called on to save the Detroit Tigers? That's just one of the unforgettable stories from this week in Indian All-Stars History. Join us as we travel back to the week of August 2 through August 8 to relive remarkable moments from Native athletes whose accomplishments continue to inspire generations. This week's stories include: Rudy York unexpectedly making his Major League debut and launching one of baseball's most remarkable rookie runs.Henry Armstrong capturing the World Featherweight Championship and adding more victories to his legendary boxing career.Willie Stargell becoming the first player ever to hit a home run completely out of Dodger Stadium.Brett Favre earning his place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.Billy Mills setting a new United States record in the ten-thousand meters.Tom Longboat defeating a five-man relay team by himself.Chuck Norris continuing his championship karate career.Neilson Powless earning his first professional cycling victory.Ryan Helsley recording his Major League-leading thirty-fourth save.And many more unforgettable moments from Native sports history. SUPPORT NDN ALL-STARS 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. NDN ALL-STARS BACKGROUND Hey there—I'm Bill Black, and welcome to the NDN All-Stars Podcast. If this is your first time hearing about us, let me tell you what we’re all about. This podcast is where Native sports history comes alive. Each episode shines a spotlight on the great Native American athletes you should know—past and present. From Hall of Famers to hometown heroes, we tell the stories of Native athletes who made their mark—on the field, on the court, and in history. We keep it real. No sugar-coating. No museum talk. Just straight-up stories told with pride and purpose—because representation matters, and these All-Stars deserve to be remembered right. Some episodes are deep dives into a single athlete’s life. Others bring on guests—historians, authors, even the athletes themselves—who help us connect the dots between culture, identity, and achievement. Whether you’re Native, a sports fan, a history buff, or just curious—this podcast will give you a new perspective on what greatness really looks like. So if you're ready to learn, laugh, and maybe even get a little fired up—hit that follow button and join the team. You can find more stories, merch, and updates at NDNAllStars.com. And be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube—just search for NDN All-Stars and you’ll find us. NDN All-Stars – Promoting Great Native Athletes – Past & Present!

    This Week in NDN All-Stars History | August 2–8 | Henry Armstrong, Rudy York, Willie Stargell & Brett Favre

  5. Jul 26

    This Week in NDN All-Stars History – July 26 – August 1

    NDN All-Stars is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear. EPISODE SUMMARY From one of the greatest single-game performances in baseball history to championship boxing, Hockey Hall of Fame moments, and a dramatic cycling victory, this week is packed with unforgettable Native sports history. This week, we travel back to witness: Johnny Bench's incredible three-home-run, seven-RBI explosion against Hall of Fame pitcher Steve Carlton.Jack Dempsey's lightning-fast heavyweight knockouts as he continues his rise to boxing greatness.Charles "Chief" Bender taking his rightful place in the Baseball Hall of Fame.Rudy York tying a Major League record with two grand slams in one game.Tom Longboat outrunning a three-man relay team while setting a Canadian record.Ethan Bear proudly wearing his name in Cree on the back of his NHL jersey.Chuck Norris capturing a national karate championship.Willie Stargell entering Cooperstown.Neilson Powless earning his first professional cycling victory in dramatic fashion.Jim Plunkett appearing on the cover of SPORT magazine after beginning the next chapter of his remarkable football career. SUPPORT NDN ALL-STARS 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. NDN ALL-STARS BACKGROUND Hey there—I'm Bill Black, and welcome to the NDN All-Stars Podcast. If this is your first time hearing about us, let me tell you what we’re all about. This podcast is where Native sports history comes alive. Each episode shines a spotlight on the great Native American athletes you should know—past and present. From Hall of Famers to hometown heroes, we tell the stories of Native athletes who made their mark—on the field, on the court, and in history. We keep it real. No sugar-coating. No museum talk. Just straight-up stories told with pride and purpose—because representation matters, and these All-Stars deserve to be remembered right. Some episodes are deep dives into a single athlete’s life. Others bring on guests—historians, authors, even the athletes themselves—who help us connect the dots between culture, identity, and achievement. Whether you’re Native, a sports fan, a history buff, or just curious—this podcast will give you a new perspective on what greatness really looks like. So if you're ready to learn, laugh, and maybe even get a little fired up—hit that follow button and join the team. You can find more stories, merch, and updates at NDNAllStars.com. And be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube—just search for NDN All-Stars and you’ll find us. NDN All-Stars – Promoting Great Native Athletes – Past & Present!

    This Week in NDN All-Stars History – July 26 – August 1

  6. Jul 19

    This Week in NDN All-Stars History | July 19–25 | One Record-Breaking Night, Boxing Legends & More

    NDN All-Stars is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear. EPISODE SUMMARY What do a record-breaking WNBA All-Star performance, one of boxing's fastest knockouts, and the greatest all-around athlete in history have in common? They all happened this week in Native sports history. Join Bill Black as we travel through the week of July 19–25, celebrating the incredible achievements of Native athletes from the past and the present. This week's featured story follows Shoni Schimmel as the Umatilla star steps onto the WNBA All-Star stage and delivers one of the greatest performances in league history. Along the way, we'll revisit memorable moments from Henry Armstrong, Virgil Hill, Jack Dempsey, Jim Thorpe, Cory Witherill, Bobby Madritsch, George "Comanche Boy" Tahdooahnippah, Dexter Stacey, Brandon Rios, Koda Glover, and Elizabeth Phillips. Every week brings another chapter in the story of Native athletic excellence. Imagine running through the tunnel and onto the court. The lights are bright. The crowd is roaring. You take one deep breath, knowing this could be the biggest moment of your life. For Shoni Schimmel, it was. This week, we celebrate one of the greatest performances in WNBA All-Star history while also looking back at unforgettable moments from boxing, baseball, mixed martial arts, and auto racing. This Week's Highlights🏀 Shoni Schimmel rewrites the WNBA All-Star record book. 🥊 Henry Armstrong continues one of boxing's greatest careers with multiple victories. 🥊 Jack Dempsey scores one of the quickest knockout victories of his legendary career. ⚾ Jim Thorpe continues his professional baseball journey. 🏎️ Cory Witherill and Dexter Stacey represent Native excellence in motorsports. ⚾ Bobby Madritsch and Koda Glover reach the Major Leagues. 🥊 Virgil Hill, Brandon Rios, George "Comanche Boy" Tahdooahnippah, and Elizabeth Phillips add memorable victories to Native sports history. Visit NDNAllStars.com for more stories celebrating great Native athletes from the past and the present. SUPPORT NDN ALL-STARS 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. NDN ALL-STARS BACKGROUND Hey there—I'm Bill Black, and welcome to the NDN All-Stars Podcast. If this is your first time hearing about us, let me tell you what we’re all about. This podcast is where Native sports history comes alive. Each episode shines a spotlight on the great Native American athletes you should know—past and present. From Hall of Famers to hometown heroes, we tell the stories of Native athletes who made their mark—on the field, on the court, and in history. We keep it real. No sugar-coating. No museum talk. Just straight-up stories told with pride and purpose—because representation matters, and these All-Stars deserve to be remembered right. Some episodes are deep dives into a single athlete’s life. Others bring on guests—historians, authors, even the athletes themselves—who help us connect the dots between culture, identity, and achievement. Whether you’re Native, a sports fan, a history buff, or just curious—this podcast will give you a new perspective on what greatness really looks like. So if you're ready to learn, laugh, and maybe even get a little fired up—hit that follow button and join the team. You can find more stories, merch, and updates at NDNAllStars.com. And be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube—just search for NDN All-Stars and you’ll find us. NDN All-Stars – Promoting Great Native Athletes – Past & Present!

    This Week in NDN All-Stars History | July 19–25 | One Record-Breaking Night, Boxing Legends & More

  7. Jul 12

    This Week in NDN All-Stars History | July 12–18, 2026

    NDN All-Stars is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear. EPISODE SUMMARY Episode summary goes here...... SUPPORT NDN ALL-STARS 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. NDN ALL-STARS BACKGROUND Hey there—I'm Bill Black, and welcome to the NDN All-Stars Podcast. If this is your first time hearing about us, let me tell you what we’re all about. This podcast is where Native sports history comes alive. Each episode shines a spotlight on the great Native American athletes you should know—past and present. From Hall of Famers to hometown heroes, we tell the stories of Native athletes who made their mark—on the field, on the court, and in history. We keep it real. No sugar-coating. No museum talk. Just straight-up stories told with pride and purpose—because representation matters, and these All-Stars deserve to be remembered right. Some episodes are deep dives into a single athlete’s life. Others bring on guests—historians, authors, even the athletes themselves—who help us connect the dots between culture, identity, and achievement. Whether you’re Native, a sports fan, a history buff, or just curious—this podcast will give you a new perspective on what greatness really looks like. So if you're ready to learn, laugh, and maybe even get a little fired up—hit that follow button and join the team. You can find more stories, merch, and updates at NDNAllStars.com. And be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube—just search for NDN All-Stars and you’ll find us. NDN All-Stars – Promoting Great Native Athletes – Past & Present! Companies mentioned in this episode: New York YankeesCleveland IndiansSeattle StormCincinnati RedsPGA TourGreen Bay PackersNASCAR Takeaways: The podcast highlights significant historical moments in the careers of Native American athletes.Listeners are introduced to legendary figures such as Allie Reynolds and Joe Louis.Each episode seeks to inspire new generations by celebrating the achievements of Native athletes.The narrative emphasizes the importance of remembering and honoring the past in sports history.

    This Week in NDN All-Stars History | July 12–18, 2026

  8. Jul 5

    This Week in NDN All-Stars History: Jim Thorpe, Lewis Tewanima, Virgil Hill, and Willie Stargell | July 5–11

    NDN All-Stars is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear. EPISODE SUMMARY This week in NDN All-Stars history highlights Olympic legends, baseball milestones, championship boxing, and professional firsts across more than a century of sports history. Jim Thorpe captures Olympic gold in Stockholm and receives one of the most famous compliments in sports history, while Lewis Tewanima earns a silver medal in the ten-thousand-meter race just one day later. We also feature Virgil Hill continuing his championship-era success, Willie Stargell passing a Pittsburgh Pirates legend on the career home run list, and Pepper Martin helping make history in the very first Major League Baseball All-Star Game. Additional highlights include Jack Dempsey's knockout victory in Atlanta, Bob Johnson hitting for the cycle at Fenway Park, Early Wynn earning an All-Star Game start, and Ashton Locklear's selection as an Olympic alternate. From Olympic greatness to baseball history and championship boxing, these stories continue to showcase the remarkable legacy of Native athletes across generations. Topics Covered• Jim Thorpe wins Olympic gold in the Pentathlon • Lewis Tewanima earns an Olympic silver medal • Virgil Hill records multiple professional victories • Willie Stargell passes Ralph Kiner on Pittsburgh's home run list • Pepper Martin plays in the first MLB All-Star Game • Bob Johnson hits for the cycle at Fenway Park • Early Wynn is named an MLB All-Star Game starter • Jack Dempsey scores another first-round knockout • Terry Felix makes his professional soccer debut • Ashton Locklear earns a place as a U.S. Olympic alternate SUPPORT NDN ALL-STARS 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. NDN ALL-STARS BACKGROUND Hey there—I'm Bill Black, and welcome to the NDN All-Stars Podcast. If this is your first time hearing about us, let me tell you what we’re all about. This podcast is where Native sports history comes alive. Each episode shines a spotlight on the great Native American athletes you should know—past and present. From Hall of Famers to hometown heroes, we tell the stories of Native athletes who made their mark—on the field, on the court, and in history. We keep it real. No sugar-coating. No museum talk. Just straight-up stories told with pride and purpose—because representation matters, and these All-Stars deserve to be remembered right. Some episodes are deep dives into a single athlete’s life. Others bring on guests—historians, authors, even the athletes themselves—who help us connect the dots between culture, identity, and achievement. Whether you’re Native, a sports fan, a history buff, or just curious—this podcast will give you a new perspective on what greatness really looks like. So if you're ready to learn, laugh, and maybe even get a little fired up—hit that follow button and join the team. You can find more stories, merch, and updates at NDNAllStars.com. And be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube—just search for NDN All-Stars and you’ll find us. NDN All-Stars – Promoting Great Native Athletes – Past & Present!

    This Week in NDN All-Stars History: Jim Thorpe, Lewis Tewanima, Virgil Hill, and Willie Stargell | July 5–11
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In each episode, we will discuss the impact of one of our NDN All-Stars. We will share their bios, their accomplishments, and maybe one or two bits of trivia to spice things up. Our goal is to make sure that these great athletes are remembered and honored for their contributions to the proud history of Native Americans everywhere.

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