Hall of Fame
Dan Hart was born in Odell, TX, in 1923. Hart was a star athlete in high school, lettering in basketball and competing in tennis and track. He was an exemplarily student who graduated with high honors from Odell High School in 1941.
Hart attended Texas Wesleyan on an athletic scholarship and again lettered in basketball. During the 1942 season, he helped the Rams to a 13-4 overall record including a perfect 12-0 in Texas Conference play and an appearance in the NAIB National Tournament. His time at Wesleyan was interrupted by his service in the U.S. Army, in which he enlisted in 1943 and served in until 1946. His military rank on departure was corporal, and he was highly decorated. Hart returned to Texas Wesleyan after World War II and received a bachelor’s degree in 1947.
He would earn a master’s degree from North Texas State College in 1947.
He served as Texas Wesleyan's head men's basketball coach from 1948 to 1956, and was known for his gentle spirit and strong leadership. Hart led the Rams to a record of 50-41 and two Big State Conference Championships. He also later served as Wesleyan’s athletic director.
He married Dorothy Sue Rowe in 1950, and the couple had three boys, Larry, Stacy and Rodney. Hart continued to work in higher education, including as Executive Secretary of the Accrediting Commission of the Association of Independent Colleges and Schools. He also managed Massey Business School and Durham’s Business College. Hart died on March 17, 1977, but his legacy is remembered by those who knew him.
