Joe McWilliams

Joe McWilliams | 1959–1962 | Dunbar High School | Basketball

Though many in the community fondly remember Joe McWilliams as the dedicated, longtime basketball coach at Dunbar High School, his legacy in the Lubbock ISD Athletic Hall of Honor extends back to his formidable days as a star player for the Dunbar Panthers. Long before he paced the sidelines, McWilliams was anchoring the court, playing on two Prairie View Interscholastic League State Championship teams during his high school career. He was one of two sophomores on the 1960 State Championship Team.

In 1962, McWilliams was the Panthers' leading scorer as he took his team to another State Championship.

His outstanding play earned Joe a First Team All-State selection.

After his high school playing days were over, McWilliams headed to West Texas State to continue his basketball career. He played at West Texas State from 1963 to 1966.

In 1975, he returned to Dunbar High School to serve as the Head Basketball Coach, during which the team moved from the PVIL to Class 3A in the University Interscholastic League.

Joe McWilliams, also known as Coach Mac, passed away on September 12, 2000, at the age of 58. He left behind a loving family and a legacy of basketball teammates and players. His success as a player at Dunbar is well documented, but he will also be remembered for his success and leadership as a high school basketball coach for the Panthers.
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