At Talihina High School, Kaidon Potts stands as a proud representative of the Choctaw Nation, weaving together his rich heritage with a passion for basketball that started almost as soon as he could walk.
“My paternal great-grandfather was full-blood Choctaw, my maternal great-great-grandfather and great-great-grandmother were both original enrollees. I am Choctaw proud. I believe in hard work, respect and resilience as my ancestors did,” Kaidon shared, illustrating the deep roots that connect him to the Choctaw Nation. For him, being Choctaw is not just a heritage; it’s a source of inspiration that guides his principles on and off the basketball court.
Kaidon’s journey with basketball began practically at infancy, as he humorously recalled, “I think I was born with a basketball in my hand! I started playing with a small goal at the age of two and could slam dunk it as well as shoot at an early age.” His journey continued through Talihina Elementary and AAU, with basketball representing more than just a sport. “Basketball represents blood, sweat, and tears as well as sacrifice. It represents a sense of belonging to a family of brothers. Basketball has helped shape my life mostly by giving the will to achieve my ambitions instead of fearing them.”
The Choctaw dedication and resilience throughout history have significantly influenced Kaidon’s approach to teamwork. “The dedication, sacrifices made, and determination of the Choctaws have helped shape my approach to teamwork,” he explained. These values of teamwork and unity extend beyond the court, impacting his interactions with others in various aspects of life.
Family, faith and culture are the pillars that uphold Kaidon’s values and views on life: “The values of family, faith, and culture have helped set my views on key issues such as goals set in education and any sport that I play. I put my faith in God first, then family. My culture provides moral guidance for me.”
In the tight-knit community of Talihina, support for athletes is not just a spectator’s role; it’s a collective effort that reflects a sense of family. “Talihina is a small community that comes together to support athletes through their love of competition and team spirit. We’re like one big family supporting each other. Then there’s my family. They have always been by my side at every game cheering me on. I appreciate all of their time, money, and dedication that they have put into the years of supporting me.”
Reflecting on his cultural experiences, Kaidon recalls the profound impact of attending pow-wows and witnessing the game of stickball. “Going to powwows as a kid and hearing the drums playing, it brought a sense of balance to me. Then there’s the game of stickball, the teamwork and unity the players showed.”
As a role model within his community, Kaidon feels a responsibility to be authentic and uplifting. “I know there’s younger athletes watching me, so it is my responsibility to be a positive role model by being authentically myself. I’m aware of my strengths and weaknesses, behave in the manner that I am expected to. I like to encourage my teammates, lift each other up, and bring the best out of each other on and off the court. Have the ability to inspire others. Show hard work and dedication and to never give up.”
Looking towards the future, Kaidon envisions contributing to the Choctaw Nation’s progress and making a difference in tribal members’ lives. “I hope that after high school and college, I can be working within the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and assist tribal members in making a difference in their lives, provide opportunities for growth and prosperity.”
In his pursuit of preserving and celebrating Choctaw traditions, Kaidon emphasizes the importance of listening to elders, attending cultural activities, and learning the Choctaw language. “Listen to my elders tell their stories so it can be shared. Attend cultural activities as I can as well as learn more of my Choctaw language so I can teach my future children.”
