Don Simons
Graduation Year: 1953
Induction Class of 1992
Sports: Basketball, Football
Simons lettered in football (1950-52) and men’s basketball (1949-53).
On the football field, Simons led the Braves to a record of 21-6 playing for head coach Dick Peters. He was part of the 1950 KCAC Championship team. Simons earned First Team All-KCAC honors in 1952 at tight end. He led the NAIA in pass receptions in 1952 with 51. Those 51
receptions rank him ninth in the OU record book in single season receptions. Simons was named Honorable Mention AP Little All-American. Simons was co-captain of the OU football team.
As a member of the OU men’s basketball team, Simons helped the Braves to a record of 68-28. He was part of three KCAC Championship teams, three Kansas NAIA Playoff teams, and one NAIA National Tournament team. Simons earned First Team All-KCAC honors for his play during the 1952-53 season. He was named team co-captain.
Simons played a large role in establishing Braves Inc., which provided scholarships to athletes funded by “O” Club Members.