Collis Temple

Who is Collis Temple?

Collis Temple, Jr. is an American former professional basketball player.

A 6'8" forward from Kentwood, Louisiana, Temple was the first African American to play varsity basketball at Louisiana State University. When he joined the team in 1971, the United States National Guard was called to protect him from angry segregationists. As a senior, Temple earned All-Southeastern Conference honors after averaging 15.0 points and 10.5 rebounds per game.

Temple was selected by the Phoenix Suns with the 94th pick of the 1974 NBA Draft. He never played in the NBA, but spent one season with the San Antonio Spurs of the American Basketball Association. He averaged 1.8 points and 1.3 rebounds in 24 games.

Temple's sons Collis III and Garrett Temple both played at LSU.