William J. Gupton, born on July 9, 1912, and passing on May 7, 1981, left an indelible mark on high school sports, particularly within the landscape of the TSSAA. His illustrious career began as a teacher and coach at Pearl High School from 1938 to 1960, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership in basketball, amassing an overall record of 443 wins against 107 losses. Under his guidance, Pearl High School secured 11 State Championships and earned national recognition with 3 National High School Titles consecutively in 1958, 1959, and 1960. Gupton's contributions extended beyond coaching as he served as President of the TSSAA, evidencing his commitment to fostering athletic excellence in Tennessee secondary schools.

After a successful tenure at Pearl High School, Gupton continued his educational and leadership journey as a principal at Meigs High School from 1960 to 1971. His influence in sports was further acknowledged through numerous accolades, including being named Coach of the Year six times and earning the prestigious title of National Coach of the Year three times. Gupton's legacy was not only etched in the records and trophies of the teams he led but also in the individuals he mentored, coaching fellow TSSAA Hall of Fame members Cornelius Ridley and Ronald Lawson, Sr.

His contributions to high school sports in Tennessee were further immortalized through his involvement in completing the merger of the Tennessee High School Athletic Association and the TSSAA, strengthening the framework for secondary school athletics across the state. Gupton's legacy lives on through various honors bestowed upon him, including his induction into the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and having the Martin Luther King High School Gymnasium named the Gupton/Ridley Gymnasium in his honor. This recognition not only underscores his extraordinary career but also highlights his exceptional service to TSSAA before his induction into its Hall of Fame in 2006.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2006
Category: Coach