Cleo Littleton, who amassed 2,164 points during his tenure at Wichita State, passed away at the age of 93. The announcement came from his son, Barry Littleton, who posted the news on social media, highlighting his father’s enduring spirit in his final years.
Littleton arrived at Wichita State in 1951 and quickly became a cornerstone of the program. Over four seasons he averaged 18.5 points as a freshman, 18.3 as a sophomore, 18.2 as a junior, and 21.2 as a senior, culminating in a career total that still stands as the school’s record.
A Legacy Under Legendary Guidance
Throughout his college years he played under the tutelage of Hall of Fame coach Ralph Miller, who guided the Shockers to a remarkable 27‑4 record in the 1953‑54 season. That team remains one of the most celebrated squads in program history.
Littleton’s name is etched alongside Xavier McDaniel as the only Shockers to reach the 2,000‑point milestone, a testament to his consistency and scoring prowess. Their achievements set a benchmark for future generations of players.
Even after his playing days, Littleton remained a fixture at Wichita State events. In his later years he was frequently seen cheering at basketball games, engaging with fans, and contributing to community initiatives that kept the spirit of the program alive.