Paul "Wimp" McDaniel, born on June 2, 1930, garnered immense respect and recognition throughout his extensive career in sports officiating, culminating in his 1990 induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame. McDaniel's career with the TSSAA spanned an impressive 24 years, beginning in 1955 and concluding in 1979. During this period, he was an instrumental figure in basketball officiating at various levels within the association.

McDaniel's dedication to the sport was evident through his involvement in a significant number of tournaments across the state. In basketball, he officiated at 20 district tournaments, 19 regional tournaments, 3 sub-state tournaments, and 5 TSSAA State Tournaments. In addition to these, he also officiated a TSSAA All-Star game, further showcasing his esteemed position within the officiating community. His contributions also extended to baseball, where he also left his mark.

Beyond his direct contributions as an official, McDaniel's influence extended into officiating leadership. From 1980 until his passing on January 16, 2001, he served as the TSSAA Supervisor for the Smoky Mountain Basketball Officials’ Association, a role he held for 21 years. This position allowed him to mentor and guide upcoming officials, ensuring the quality and integrity of sports officiating continued to thrive.

Additionally, McDaniel brought his expertise to the collegiate level, officiating college basketball for 12 years. His broad experience across high school and college sports underscored the depth of his commitment to the development and integrity of athletic competitions.

Paul McDaniel's career, marked by his induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 1990, celebrates a legacy of dedication, leadership, and significant service to the TSSAA and sports officiating in Tennessee. His contributions have left a lasting impact on the association and the countless individuals who had the privilege of working alongside him.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 1990
Category: Official