You Might Be Surprised by These 10 Native American Pro Basketball Stars

From hardwood pioneers to modern-day pros, these Native American athletes have brought heart, hustle, and heritage to professional basketball.

🏀 1. Sandy Cohen III (Oneida Nation of Wisconsin)

Sandy Cohen III, a proud member of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, has carved out an impressive path in professional basketball. Born in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Cohen initially showcased his skills at Seymour Community High School, earning individual and team accolades. After transferring to the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Cohen set a single-season scoring record and led the team in all major statistical categories.

After going undrafted in the 2019 NBA Draft, Cohen signed a four-year contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv, one of Israel’s premier basketball clubs. He later played for Bnei Herzliya and currently competes for Hapoel Afula B.C. in the Israeli Basketball Premier League.

Cohen’s journey from Wisconsin to international courts exemplifies the global reach of Native American athletes and serves as an inspiration to Indigenous youth aspiring to achieve excellence in sports!

🏀 2. Kyrie Irving (Standing Rock Sioux)

One of the NBA’s most electrifying point guards, Kyrie Irving is not only known for his jaw-dropping ball-handling skills and clutch performances but also for his deep connection to his Native heritage. His late mother, Elizabeth Larson, was a member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. Although Irving wasn’t raised within the community, he has worked to reconnect with his roots as an adult.

In 2018, Irving was welcomed into the tribe in a special ceremony where he was honored with a Lakota name: “Hela” (Little Mountain). Since then, he has used his platform to support Indigenous causes, including donating to the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and advocating for clean water and land rights.

🏀 3. Ryneldi Becenti (Navajo Nation)

Ryneldi Becenti made history as the first Native American to play in the WNBA, signing with the Phoenix Mercury during the league’s inaugural season in 1997.

A standout guard known for her court vision and leadership, Becenti had a stellar collegiate career at Arizona State University, where she was twice named First-Team All-Pac-10 and later inducted into the ASU Sports Hall of Fame.

Her journey to the pros was not just about talent—it was about resilience, cultural pride, and paving the way for future Indigenous athletes. As a proud member of the Navajo Nation, Becenti’s legacy continues to inspire young Native players to dream big and break barriers in the world of professional basketball.

🏀 4. Tahnee Robinson (Northern Cheyenne)

Another trailblazer in women’s basketball, Tahnee Robinson made history as the first Native American player to be drafted into the WNBA in over a decade when she was selected by the Phoenix Mercury in 2011. A dynamic scorer and fierce competitor, Robinson starred at the University of Nevada, where she was named to the All-WAC First Team and became one of the top players in the program’s history.

Beyond her accomplishments on the court, Robinson is deeply committed to giving back—serving as a coach and mentor to Indigenous youth across the country. She regularly speaks at camps and clinics, sharing her story to inspire young athletes to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles.

🏀 5. Joe Burton (Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians)

Joe Burton made history as the first Native American man to earn a scholarship and play for a major Division I basketball program when he joined Oregon State University in 2009.

Known for his physical presence and versatile skill set, Burton played all four years with the Beavers, becoming a fan favorite for his hustle, unselfish play, and strong leadership. He finished his college career with over 1,000 points, 700 rebounds, and 300 assists—an impressive stat line that showcased his all-around game.

After college, Burton took his talents overseas, playing professionally in countries like Denmark, France, and Japan, where he continued to represent Native excellence on an international stage. His journey is a powerful example of how athletic talent and cultural pride can open doors and break boundaries.

🏀 6. Shoni Schimmel (Umatilla Tribe)

A college basketball phenom turned WNBA sensation, Shoni Schimmel captured national attention with her electrifying style of play, earning her the nickname “Showtime Shoni.” As a standout at the University of Louisville, she led her team to the NCAA championship game in 2013, dazzling fans with her deep shooting, no-look passes, and fearless leadership.

Drafted eighth overall by the Atlanta Dream in 2014, Schimmel wasted no time making her mark—she became a WNBA All-Star as a rookie and was named the game’s MVP after a thrilling 29-point performance. Her success brought unprecedented visibility to Native American athletes, especially Native women, and her presence in the league was a powerful symbol of representation and pride for Indigenous communities.

Off the court, Schimmel has spoken openly about her roots and has remained an advocate for Native youth, showing that cultural identity and athletic excellence can go hand in hand.

🏀 7. Jude Schimmel (Umatilla Tribe)

Following in the footsteps of her sister Shoni, Jude Schimmel made her own mark at the University of Louisville, where the sisters became a dynamic duo known for their chemistry, heart, and determination.

Jude played a key role in helping the Cardinals reach multiple NCAA tournament appearances, including their unforgettable run to the national championship game in 2013. Off the court, Jude emerged as a powerful voice for Indigenous youth and women, earning national recognition for her advocacy work.

She authored the book Dreamcatcher, detailing her journey as a Native athlete and the importance of staying grounded in culture while pursuing big dreams. Today, she continues to inspire through motivational speaking, youth outreach, and community engagement.

🏀 8. Bronson Koenig (Ho-Chunk Nation)

Bronson Koenig rose to national prominence as a clutch shooter and floor general for the University of Wisconsin, where he played a pivotal role in leading the Badgers to back-to-back NCAA tournament runs, including a Final Four appearance in 2015. Known for his poise under pressure, Koenig hit one of the most memorable buzzer-beaters in tournament history against Xavier.

After college, he had a brief stint in the NBA with the Milwaukee Bucks and played professionally in the G League and overseas. But Koenig’s influence extends beyond basketball—he has become an outspoken advocate for Native rights, cultural visibility, and youth empowerment.

He’s participated in protests like the Standing Rock demonstrations against the Dakota Access Pipeline, and he frequently speaks at schools and Native youth events, encouraging the next generation to embrace their identity and use their voice.

🏀 9. Kenny Dobbs (Choctaw Nation)

While he may not have played in the NBA, Kenny Dobbs has carved out a legendary name for himself in the world of basketball as one of the most electrifying dunkers on the planet.

Known as “The Dunk Inventor,” Dobbs is a globally recognized slam dunk champion whose jaw-dropping athleticism and gravity-defying creativity have earned him viral fame. He has won multiple international dunk contests, performed at NBA All-Star Weekend events, and even appeared in commercials and films, all while proudly representing his Choctaw heritage.

Beyond the highlight reels, Dobbs uses his platform to inspire and uplift Native youth, speaking at schools, reservations, and youth programs about the importance of education, cultural pride, and perseverance. His unique blend of showmanship and mentorship has made him a cultural ambassador for Indigenous excellence in sports.

🏀 10. Ron Baker (Citizen Potawatomi Nation)

Ron Baker, a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, is a former professional basketball player whose rise from an under-the-radar recruit to an NCAA star and NBA player captured national attention.

Baker walked on at Wichita State University in 2011 and became a cornerstone of the Shockers’ basketball success. He helped lead the team to a Final Four appearance in 2013 and an undefeated regular season in 2013–14. After going undrafted in 2016, Baker signed with the New York Knicks and later had a short stint with the Washington Wizards, as well as a season with CSKA Moscow in Russia.

Off the court, he remains a source of inspiration, especially for Native youth, and is the author of a children’s book titled You’re Too Big to Dream Small, which encourages young people to chase their dreams.