The Texas Black Sports Hall of Fame (TBSHOF) marked its 30th anniversary with a weekend-long celebration in Dallas, culminating in a sold-out induction luncheon at the Renaissance Dallas Hotel on Saturday, March 7, 2026. Hosted by the African American Museum, Dallas, the event honored 14 “history-making figures” who have shaped the landscape of Texas athletics and beyond.
- The Legends Reception: The festivities kicked off Friday evening at the African American Museum in Fair Park, where past inductees and the Class of 2026 gathered for an intimate evening of storytelling and community pride.
- A “Time Was Had”: A high-energy Saturday luncheon filled with standing ovations and emotional tributes. Attendees described the atmosphere as a masterclass in “Black Excellence,” emphasizing mentorship and the enduring legacy of the honorees.
- Leadership at the Helm: Dallas Mavericks legend Rolando Blackman served as the Honorary Chair, bridging the gap between current sports icons and the pioneers being enshrined.
The Inductees: Excellence Defined
The 2026 class showcased a diverse range of talent across coaching, professional play, and sports journalism:
- Coaching Giants: Headlined by Lovie Smith, the Super Bowl-leading coach from Big Sandy, and volleyball veteran Cydryce McMillian. The class also posthumously honored Robert “Snake” LeGrand, the trailblazing UT Arlington basketball coach.
- Court & Field Stars: NBA veteran Calvin “C.J.” Miles Jr. and MLB All-Star Jerry Mumphrey represented the professional ranks, while LaQuan Stallworth was celebrated for her legendary status as one of Texas’ top 100 basketball players of all time.
- Voice of the Game: Longtime sports journalist Dwain Price was enshrined for his decades of work covering the Dallas Mavericks and documenting the history of Black athletes in Texas.
Legacy and Impact
As a signature event for the Friends of Sports History, the ceremony continued its mission of chronicling the often-overlooked contributions of African American athletes with Texas ties. For over a decade, the Parrish Charitable Foundation has served as the title sponsor, ensuring these “powerful stories” are preserved for future generations.
Roland Parrish is a prominent Dallas entrepreneur and philanthropist was also inducted as a special contributor. While primarily known as a business mogul, his recognition stems from both his personal history as a standout athlete and his decades of financial support that saved the Hall of Fame from closure.
Why Parrish Was Recognized
- Athletic Excellence: Before his business career, Parrish was a star track athlete at Purdue University. He was a six-time Big Ten champion, a two-time team MVP, and he still holds the Purdue record for the 1,000-meter run (set in 1975).
- “Saving” the Hall of Fame: In 2008, when a major corporate sponsor abruptly pulled out, Parrish’s foundation stepped in to become the title sponsor. His sponsorship has been credited with preserving the institution for nearly 20 years.
- Advancing Sports Equity: Through his Parrish Charitable Foundation, he sponsors the Charley Pride Fellowship with the Texas Rangers, a $250,000 initiative designed to increase minority representation in professional sports front offices.
The 2026 class includes a diverse group of sporting figures with strong Texas ties:
- Lovie Smith: Renowned NFL coach.
- Jerry Mumphrey: Former MLB player.
- C.J. Miles Jr.: NBA veteran and Dallas Skyline standout.
- LaQuan Stallworth: Basketball.
- Robert “Snake” LeGrand: UTA coaching legend (posthumous).
- Cydryce McMillian: Coach.
- Winston Hill: Football (posthumous).
- Johnny Roland: Football.
- Leslie Oduwole: Tennis.
- Sara Davis: Track.
- Anthony Reed: Track and field/distance running.
- Richard “Dick” Hall: Former Dallas Tornado soccer player and coach.
- Dwain Price: Longtime NBA sportswriter/journalist.
- William “Po Bill” Patterson: Community basketball organizer.
- Roland Parrish: Philanthropist, businessman and legendary track athlete
Ceremony Details
- Honorary Chair: Dallas Mavericks legend Rolando Blackman.
- Events: The weekend included a Friday Legends Reception at the African American Museum, Dallas and the Induction Luncheon on Saturday.
