Temp Sparkman was one of the founding members of both the Belmont Basketball and Baseball programs. Recruited by Coach Larry Striplin, Sparkman was a starter and key contributor on Belmont’s first team in 1952-53. He was named All-Conference on the 1955 VSAC Championship Team that advanced to the program’s first NAIA District Tournament. Nearly a career double-figure scorer from the guard/forward position, Sparkman was a team captain and regular set-up man for All-American post player Robert Barnes. In addition, Temp was a middle infielder on the baseball team, was solid with the glove, and had a .225 batting average.

However, Sparkman’s accomplishments and contributions extend far beyond the hardwood, and in large order serve as a microcosm of the spirit of the university itself. While at Belmont, he served a two year term as Student Government Association President and was voted “Mr. Belmont” by his peers.

As an alumnus, Sparkman wrote the first constitution of the Belmont Alumni Board and served as its first president. Sparkman has been a valued counsel both to the athletic department and university as a whole over the past years in key decision making. He has also penned a book on Belmont’s inaugural basketball team.