Hardwood Healing | Jason Amador
Written by daybreak on June 17, 2025
“I always knew that I wasn’t playing for myself, I’m representing my people, my family, my culture.” – Jason Amador
On Jermaine’s show, ‘The Winner’s Edge’, we sit down with Jason Amador, Division 1 basketball player at Grand Canyon University. Check out the full video interview down below‼️👇
Carried Dreams to Legacy
Hailing from the Colorado River Indian Tribes out of Parker, AZ, Jason Amador comes from a strong background. Being Navajo on his mother’s side and Mojave/Quechan on his father’s side, Jason’s story represents a multitude of people. Although his hoop dreams were built out of brotherhood, one that will last forever.
At the age of 12 Jason lost his best friend in a tragic car accident, the same friend that inspired him to play basketball. Introduced to tragedy at such a young age left the game of basketball imprinted into his soul. This led Jason to chasing his hoop dreams not only for himself but for his brother.
Growing up playing in small rez tournaments, Jason’s dad knew what it would take to get to the next level and always made sure his son understood. This hard-work led Jason to becoming a McDonald’s All American Nominee next to greats such as Nico Mannion. Although the adversity and obstacles wouldn’t stop coming Jason’s way.
Elevating to the Next Level
Despite being player of the year, region player of the year, 1st team all conference, 2nd team all state, Jason graduated high school with no offers. Jason was thankfully picked up at the University of Saint Katherine under head coach Kevin Williamson. Unfortunately, the school would eventually be hit by COVID and shut down shortly after.
Gracefully, his culture taught him resilience, perseverance, and most importantly ‘his WHY’. Understanding that through all of the adversity, he was the one to endure and overcome it all. This led Jason to transferring to Grand Canyon University, to play division 1 basketball.
Regardless of all that Jason has been through which includes double-hip surgery. Breaking his finger on his first practice back, and of course his journey through COVID, nothing stops him. Now pursuing his masters degree at GCU, he understands what it takes to succeed.
Staying Grounded
Jason now understands what his purpose is and why he was put through what he endured. He hopes to inspire the youth through all things sports and beyond. Coming from a small 2A school, to now Division 1 basketball and a masters degree, Jason knows what it takes.
Through tragedy, being overlooked, enduring unavoidable world circumstances and still coming out on top. This story is a beyond a rez success story, its one any and all can relate and latch onto. Ending off with one of his most powerful stories, Jason naturally inspires others.
During his senior year, in the state tournament, Jason’s dad approached him. Jason was a McDonalds All American Nominee, finding out right before his game. Jason went on to drop 30 points with a new found confidence and most importantly beast inside him.
Continue to put in the work, the results will come and go find the what makes you tick. Go check out the full video interview down below and support Jason Amador in all that he does‼️👇
