The legacy of Hampton High School’s basketball team shines brightly through the remarkable careers of players Carl Roberson and Wesley “Wes” Forbes. In 1960, they played pivotal roles in leading their team to a state championship, overcoming significant height disadvantages to compete against much taller opponents. Their contributions to the game were profound, and their story remains an inspiring chapter in Tennessee high school basketball history.
Defying Expectations on the Court
Known as the “Little Men from the Mountains,” both Roberson and Forbes stood at just six feet tall. Despite their stature, they exhibited incredible skill and tenacity on the court, regularly challenging players nearly a foot taller. Under the guidance of legendary coach Buck Van Huss, they became essential members of the Bulldogs, who posted an impressive record of 116 wins and 14 losses during Roberson’s tenure. This success came during a time when Tennessee high school basketball featured only one division, making their achievements even more remarkable.
Roberson’s accolades include averaging more than 10 points per game and dominating the boards with an average of over 20 rebounds per game. His performance earned him All-State honors in 1960 and All-Watauga Conference recognition in 1959. He was a standout not only in basketball but also in track, securing the conference high jump title and leading his team in rebounds during his senior year.
Forbes etched his name into Hampton lore during the 1960 state championship game against Union City, where he scored 15 points and secured 13 rebounds. His calm demeanor under pressure was evident as he converted six of eight free throws in the final quarter, a feat that underscored his clutch performance in a high-stakes environment.
A Legacy Beyond the Court
The partnership between Roberson and Forbes extended beyond their playing days, as both contributed to a scholarship fund to aid students pursuing higher education. This initiative reflects their commitment to giving back to the community that supported them throughout their careers.
Forbes later served in the U.S. Navy, and he credited coach Van Huss for influencing his decision to finish school rather than drop out. “The Navy will always be there, but finishing school must come first,” Forbes recalled, highlighting the lasting impact of Van Huss’s mentorship.
Both players exemplified the spirit of teamwork and determination, often overshadowing more prominent players on the team, such as Jerry White and Willie Malone. Malone remarked on their contributions, stating, “In the basketball world, MVPs are usually judged by points. But Carl and Wes were the MVPs of the 1960 team.” Their focus on rebounding and defensive plays helped the Bulldogs secure their state title.
The duo’s defensive mastery included executing the “scissors” play, which disrupted opponents’ offenses at critical moments. A memorable instance occurred during the state tournament when Forbes’ quick thinking forced a traveling violation and enabled the Bulldogs to maintain possession in a tight matchup against Murfreesboro.
Their ability to compete against taller opponents—often facing centers who stood at 6 feet 11 inches—demonstrated that skill and strategy could triumph over sheer physicality. The Bulldogs frequently scored in the high 80s and 90s, including a staggering 115-point game against Lamar, all achieved without the benefit of a three-point line.
The impact of Roberson and Forbes on their team and the community remains significant, even decades after their championship victory. While Wes Forbes passed away on May 7, 2022, in Orlando, Florida, his legacy continues to inspire. Both players were celebrated not just for their athletic prowess but also for their character and contributions off the court.
As the state of Tennessee has crowned only six basketball state champions from Carter County since the 1920s—five boys and one girls—the achievement of the 1960 Hampton Bulldogs stands as a testament to the power of teamwork, resilience, and determination, embodied by the “Little Men from the Mountains.” Their story is a reminder that greatness often comes in unexpected forms.
