Carroll Reed Dawson

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Carroll Reed "CD" Dawson, a beloved figure in the world of basketball and in the hearts of those who knew him. CD passed away peacefully on September 9, 2024, in Dallas, Texas, surrounded by his loving family. In the words of the Apostle Paul from 2 Timothy 4:7, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." CD lived a life that exemplified this verse, dedicating himself to excellence, service, and his unwavering faith.

Born on May 3, 1938, in Alba, Texas, CD's journey from small-town beginnings to the international basketball stage is a testament to his resilience, talent, and passion. From his days at Paris Junior College, where he earned All-American honors in 1958-1959, to his years at Baylor University, where he was named All-Southwest Conference and 1960's Southwest Conference Outstanding Player, CD's impact on the game as a player was undeniable.

After graduation, CD was drafted into the Army. He served 22 months, playing much of that time on the Army basketball team. In the spring of 1963, Baylor Basketball Coach Bill Menefee invited CD to be his Assistant Coach. In that role, CD made history by recruiting Tommy Bowman, Baylor's first Black scholarship athlete, demonstrating his commitment to equality and excellence in the sport. He succeeded Menefee as Head Coach, molding young athletes with his signature blend of humor and discipline until his departure in 1976.

After Baylor, CD accepted an offer to train and work as a stockbroker in New York. The night before he was to leave, CD had a chance encounter with Gil Brandt, an executive with the Dallas Cowboys, who offered him a job in the scouting department. CD's natural rapport with athletes made him an ideal choice.

He worked briefly with the Cowboys before ultimately joining the Houston Rockets in 1979, where he would spend over three decades shaping the franchise's future. During his time with the Rockets, CD became renowned for his sharp basketball mind, his ability to spot and develop talent, and his role in securing key players who would define the team's success. Most notably, he played a key role in developing Hakeem Olajuwon, orchestrated pivotal trades for stars like Steve Francis and Tracy McGrady, and negotiated with the Chinese government to secure Yao Ming as the first overall pick in the 2002 NBA Draft. His contributions extended beyond the NBA, as he helped build the Houston Comets into a WNBA powerhouse, leading the team to four consecutive championships, anchored by Sheryl Swoopes, Cynthia Cooper, and Tina Thompson.

Despite his accomplishments, CD was deeply humble. As he often said, "It's a long way from Alba, Texas, to Beijing, China." A member of numerous Halls of Fame, including the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, Texas High School Basketball Hall of Fame, and Baylor Athletic Hall of Fame, CD remained grounded, always putting others before himself. He was admired not just for his basketball acumen, but for his character, integrity, and kindness.

Tributes from across the basketball world and beyond reflect the profound impact CD had on those around him:

- Houston Rockets: "For nearly three decades, CD was the heart and soul of our organization. His leadership, wisdom, and kindness helped shape the Rockets' history and left a lasting legacy."

- NBA: "Carroll Dawson was a giant in the basketball world, not just for his accomplishments, but for the lives he touched along the way."

- Rudy Tomjanovich: "CD was more than a coach and a GM-he was a mentor and a friend. The success we achieved wouldn't have been possible without him."

Off the court, CD was a loving husband, father, and friend. He shared an enduring and joyful marriage with his wife, Sharon, traveling the world and celebrating life's milestones together. His quick wit, sense of humor, and infectious storytelling made him a cherished presence at family gatherings, team events, and beyond.

CD leaves behind his beloved wife of 24 years, Sharon; stepchildren, Elizabeth (Rob) and Michael (Lynn); grandsons, Trey, Oliver, Noah, and Hunter; sister Linda; as well as cherished in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends and admirers. His legacy will live on in the lives of all who knew him and in the countless players, coaches, and colleagues he inspired throughout his career.

A private graveside service will take place at the historic Frankford Church and Cemetery in Dallas. A public memorial will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at Wilshire Baptist Church in Dallas to celebrate CD's life with a reception immediately to follow. This service will be livestreamed via https://youtube.com/live/K4aXH_zg-yA.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts be made in CD's honor to the Carroll R. and Sharon S. Dawson Endowed Athletic Scholarship Fund at Baylor University or Waco Family Medicine in Waco, Texas.

Carroll Reed Dawson fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. His life was a testament to perseverance, love, and faithfulness. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.