University of Memphis Athletics
M Club Hall of Fame
- Induction:
- 1974
Ed Thompson came to Memphis in 1927 from Brownsville, Tennessee, and make a name for himself in the sports of football, basketball and baseball. In 1927 Thompson played in the Tiger football backfield as a blocker but was moved to the offensive line as a center in 1929. A true “big-man”, Thompson helped his football team to an undefeated season in 1929, 8-0-2, and the Mississippi Valley Conference championship. However, it was in basketball that Thompson received his accolades. Working as a center, he was named to the All-Mississippi Valley Conference team as the center for three consecutive seasons and was named the Conference MVP for his final two years of competition. Thompson was elected captain of the basketball teams for three years. In addition to his prowess in football and basketball, Thompson also lettered in baseball as a pitcher for Zach Curlin. He was also selected to the Tigers’ All-Time Team in 1958 which was picked by coaches Hatley, Murphy, Zach Curlin and Cecil C. Humphreys.
