Power Forward

Despite not being able to read or write, Dean Tolson accepted a full ride to the University of Arkansas and later became the first basketball player to be drafted by both the NBA and the ABA. Following his basketball career, Tolson made the courageous decision to re-enroll at the University of Arkansas, earning a master's degree and graduated magna cum laude. Tolson's gripping story from his childhood in an orphanage to his academic achievements is an inspiring story of overcoming great odds to find success.