Harold Blevins, born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, left an indelible mark on Arkansas AM&N College (now UAPB) as a premier scorer and four-year starter for the Golden Lions. As a shooting guard, Blevins helped elevate UAPB’s backcourt to one of the most respected in college basketball during his time. His exceptional skill and dedication earned him the distinction of becoming the first Golden Lion player to be drafted into the NBA, selected in the second round of the 1965 draft. His athletic versatility even led to a signing with the Dallas Cowboys that same year, despite never playing college football.

However, Blevins was soon drafted into the United States Army, which prevented him from pursuing careers in either the NBA or NFL. After his service, he returned to his beloved UAPB, where he coached the men’s basketball team from 1995 to 2001, inspiring a new generation of athletes with his story of resilience and commitment. Blevins’s legacy is a powerful reminder of perseverance, passion, and loyalty, qualities that continue to inspire UAPB students and alumni today.