L. C. Gordon facts for kids
| Biographical details | |
|---|---|
| Born | June 11, 1937 Abbeville, Mississippi, U.S. |
| Died | November 4, 2023 (aged 86) Memphis, Tennessee, U.S. |
| Playing career | |
| 1958–1961 | Oklahoma State |
| Coaching career (HC unless noted) | |
| 1966–1969 | Carver HS |
| 1969–1973 | Texas Southern |
| Head coaching record | |
| Overall | 63–43 (.594) |
Lavalius Cyrone Gordon (born June 11, 1937 – died November 4, 2023) was an American basketball player and coach. He played college basketball for the Oklahoma State Cowboys. He was the first African-American player on their team. Later, Gordon became a head coach for the Texas Southern Tigers.
Early Life and College Days
L. C. Gordon was born in Abbeville, Mississippi. He grew up in Memphis, Tennessee. There, he played basketball at Booker T. Washington High School. The coach of the Memphis Tigers team, Bob Vanatta, told Gordon about a chance to play for the Oklahoma State Cowboys. Their coach, Henry Iba, wanted to have a Black player on his team. Gordon decided to join the Cowboys without even visiting the school.
Gordon was a guard. He thought of himself as a player who scored a lot. But Coach Iba changed his role. Gordon became a defensive specialist. His job was to guard the other team's best scorers. As the only Black player, he faced challenges due to racism. However, his teammates helped him feel welcome.
In 1961, Gordon finished his studies at Oklahoma State University. He earned a degree in secondary education. He also earned two master's degrees later. One was from the University of Memphis. The other was from Texas Southern University.
Coaching Career Highlights
In 1969, Gordon became the head coach of the Texas Southern Tigers. Before that, he coached basketball at Carver High School for three years.
As the Tigers' coach, he had a great record. His team won 63 games and lost 43 over four seasons. Gordon left his coaching role with the Tigers on September 5, 1973.
Family and Legacy
L. C. Gordon had a son named Lavalius Jr. His son played both college football and basketball. He played for the North Texas Mean Green team. Gordon's grandson, Trent, also plays college football. He plays for the Arkansas Razorbacks.
In 2013, Oklahoma State University honored Gordon. He was the grand marshal for their homecoming event. He was also a lifelong member of the OSU Alumni Association.
L. C. Gordon passed away on November 4, 2023. He was 86 years old.
