Missouri Valley / Oklahoma

Native American Heritage Month Spotlight — Anthony Miller Jr.

Casey McKenzie | November 18, 2024


In celebration of Native American Heritage Month taking place in November in the U.S., USTA Oklahoma is excited to recognize Anthony “Chubbs” Miller Jr., a committed leader and tennis advocate for Native American youth in Oklahoma. Miller is a teaching pro at Oklahoma City Tennis Center and played college tennis at Southwestern Christian University in Bethany, Okla.

 

Recently, with the support of the Comanche Nation, Lawton Public Schools Indian Education Program (IEP) and Miller, we organized a dynamic tennis clinic in Lawton, Okla. This event united coaches and enrolled Native American youth for an enriching day of tennis, learning and community.

 

The Comanche Nation’s invaluable contributions, along with Lawton IEP’s involvement, made this event a success and memorable experience for all. Miller also organized a similar clinic in Anadarko, Okla. and has plans for another in December.

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Miller competed in the 48th rendition of the North American Indian Tennis Association (NAITA) National Championships at Edmond Center Court in May, and he volunteered to coach at the event’s kids’ tennis clinic. Miller was announced as the tournament director for the 2025 NAITA Championships, which will take place at Oklahoma City Tennis Center.

 

To spotlight Miller’s inspiring journey and passion for tennis, we’ve included this Q&A.

 

Where are you from?

 

My home is Anadarko, Okla.

 

Where do you live now?

I currently reside in Oklahoma City for work, school and life experiences.

 

What is your family’s background?

Both sides of my family are from Native American lineage. When it comes to tennis, I am a ‘first-generation tennis player.’

What made you get into tennis?

 

I was introduced to tennis by my close childhood friend, Sean Wells, but didn’t grow my passion for the sport until high school.

 

Are you involved in NAITA?

Yes, I am doing my best to organize tennis clinics on behalf of NAITA throughout Indian Country and have participated in the past three annual tournaments.

 

How long have you been playing tennis?

 

I’ve been playing tennis since I was 13 years old, so 12 years now.

 

Do you still play tennis?

 

Yes, I still play on occasion, but I currently do more coaching than playing.

 

Where do you work?

 

I work at the friendliest tennis facility in Oklahoma—the prestigious OKC Tennis Center—and I love my team and all my clients.

 

I heard you will be the TD for NAITA next year. What do you do with that organization?

 

You heard correctly! I’ll be the TD for our annual tournament next year. It’s my first time helping organize an event of this size, but I have Coach Tony (Mullican), last year’s TD Margaret Knight and others like Weldon Smith supporting me. This event reunites so many people, and I hope to create a memorable experience for everyone who attends.

 

Favorite thing about tennis?

 

My favorite thing about tennis is the rally. There’s nothing better than standing on the baseline, split-stepping, being agile and ripping the ball back and forth.

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