Honoring the Champions Who Paved the Way in Basketball
This past weekend, Huston-Tillotson celebrated Rams Basketball as Huston-Tillotson University’s basketball program has long been a source of pride, producing champions who have left a lasting impact on the game and the surrounding communities– especially San Antonio.
As this year’s homecoming celebration unfolded, the university paid tribute to the exceptional players and coaches who laid the groundwork for its storied basketball legacy. Between 1996 and 1998, Rams Basketball surged to new heights, establishing itself as a force in the college basketball world.
96’ Team
The 1996 Big State Conference Co-Champions set the standard with a 17-13 season. Cementing their place in school history, this squad of talented athletes showcased the start of Huston-Tillotson’s competitive spirit.
Russell Fox, Demone Moore, Dereck Williams, Terrance Moore, Andre Pitts, Kirk Brown Jr., Tim Littlefield, Eric Parker, Robert Keno, and Jermont Tigner.
97’ Team
The following year, the 1997 Big State Conference Champions took things a step further, earning the university’s first-ever NAIA National Tournament appearance with an impressive 20-8 record. This team brought national recognition to the Rams, proving they belonged among the best.
Marlin Hardy, D.R. Montgomery, Roy Gardner, Ronald Brooks, Jonathan Tyler, Waseem Ali, Eric Parker, Kirk Brown Jr., and Jermont Tigner.
98’ Team
In 1998, the Rams continued their dominance, securing back-to-back Big State Conference titles and another NAIA National Tournament appearance, finishing with a 16-11 record.
Kirk Bias, Kirk Brown Jr., Marlin Hardy, D.R. Montgomery, Ronald Brooks, Jonathan Tyler, Earl Chase, Duane Gil, and Jermont Tigner.
Coach Littlefield: The Glue
These teams were led by Head Coach Terrence Littlefield (1993-2000) and Assistant Coach Ron Tate (1995-1999), whose leadership helped shape Huston-Tillotson into a respected program. His leadership transformed the program into a respected powerhouse, instilling values of perseverance, teamwork, excellence and also community.
Beyond the wins and championships, Coach Littlefield shaped players into disciplined athletes and leaders, leaving a lasting impact that extended far beyond the court. Today, Coach Littlefield is working on his Doctorate in Post-Secondary Learning Support at Texas State University, serves as a Board Member of the San Antonio African American Community Fund, and is the Chief Operating Officer of the nonprofit arm at St. Paul United Methodist Church.
San Antonio’s Contribution to the Game of Basketball
San Antonio has long been a city known for producing basketball talent, and Huston-Tillotson’s history is no exception. Players like Waseem Ali, Kirk Brown Jr. , Ronald Brooks, and Robert Keno represent the city’s lasting impact on the program.
San Antonio has cultivated stars for decades, from NBA legends like Shaquille O’Neal and Charles “Bo” Outlaw to more recent talents such as André Roberson and Jordan Clarkson. Beyond the big names, many athletes from the city have continued to give back to the community that shaped them, inspiring the next generation of players.
Kirk Brown Jr. (96-98′), a San Antonio native, currently serves as the Athletic Director and Teacher at Essence Preparatory Public School.
Waseem Ali (97′), San Antonio native, serves as the CEO and columnist of the San Antonio Observer, the only Black-owned newspaper in South Texas.
Ronald Brooks (97-98′), a La Grange, A Texas native who has made San Antonio his home, has been shaping young athletes as a cross-country coach and teacher. Since 2008, he has been coaching at Alief Elsik High School, following his tenure at Bastrop Middle School from 2000 to 2007.
A Legacy That Lives On
Huston-Tillotson’s basketball program represents more than just a series of teams—it embodies resilience, brotherhood, and achievement. The players who once wore maroon and gold built a legacy of excellence that continues to inspire new generations in San Antonio. But their impact goes beyond the game.
These men not only followed the traditional path of education and career success but also returned to uplift the community that shaped them. Their dedication to giving back serves as a powerful reminder that true greatness is measured not just by victories on the court, but by the lasting difference made off of it.
