Cleo Littleton, a towering figure in mid‑century basketball, passed away on June 2, 2026, at the age of 93. His death was confirmed by family members, who said he died peacefully at his home in Wichita, Kansas.
Early Life and College Glory
Littleton starred for Wichita State University from 1951 to 1955, becoming the program’s career scoring leader with 2,164 points. He earned All‑Missouri Valley Conference honors four times and was named All‑American in 1954 and 1955, a rare double that cemented his status among the era’s elite.
During a period when many colleges still barred Black athletes, Littleton’s presence on the court helped break racial barriers in the Missouri Valley Conference. His scoring prowess and the innovative style of coach Ralph Miller brought Shocker basketball into the city’s spotlight, culminating in the team’s first winning season in seven years during 1952‑53 and a rise to national prominence the following year.
Business Ventures and Community Leadership
After his playing days, Littleton founded Litco, Inc. in 1987, a general contracting firm that grew into a regional powerhouse. The company’s projects across Kansas and Oklahoma reflected his commitment to building infrastructure in the communities he cherished.
His business success was matched by his dedication to mentorship. Littleton was known for guiding younger players, including future NBA star Gary Payton, and for serving as a role model for aspiring athletes from underrepresented backgrounds.
Honors and Legacy
Littleton’s contributions earned him induction into several halls of fame: the Pizza Hut Shocker Sports Hall of Fame (1980), the Missouri Valley Conference Hall of Fame (2000), and the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame (2005). He also remained connected to Wichita State as an alumnus, frequently speaking at events and supporting scholarship programs.
Colleagues such as Kevin Saal and Paul Mills, who worked closely with Littleton both on the court and in his later ventures, remember him as a man of integrity and generosity. His legacy continues to inspire the Shockers and the broader basketball community.