Former SPC Basketball Coach Elected to WJCAC Hall of Fame

Patton began his relationship with South Plains College when he was recruited to wear a Texan basketball jersey by Coach Bill Powell in 1964. As co-captain of the 1965-66 squad, Patton helped lead the Texans to their first WJCAC championship with a record of 21 wins and 11 losses and was named to the all-WJCAC and all-Region teams for his efforts.

In 1972 Patton joined the faculty as director of the natatorium and also served as the assistant basketball coach before his appointment as head coach in 1974.

Patton entered private business after the 1979-80 season and was elected to the Texan Hall of Fame in 1993 and then to the SPC Board of Regents in 1994, a position he continued to serve in until his death in July 2007. All totaled, Patton served South Plains College for 23 years as a student-athlete, assistant coach, head coach, and member of the Board of Regents.

"Dennis had a long history with South Plains College as a student, athlete, teacher, coach, and as a member of the Board of Regents," said athletic director Joe Tubb. "He served as a positive mentor for countless people and is very deserving of this award."

A ceremony will be planned to honor Patton during the spring season.