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By C.Y. Peters

Donald Milburn Ellis, a native of Carter County, Tennessee, carved his name into the history books of Hampton High School basketball and beyond. Born to Pauline Laws Ellis and the late Daniel Ellis, Milburn grew up with a love for basketball, a passion that would shape his life and inspire generations of athletes who followed in his footsteps.

From an early age, it was clear that Ellis had a gift for basketball. His skill, determination, and love for the game were unmatched, and by the time he entered Hampton High School, it was evident he was destined for greatness. A four-year starter for the Hampton Bulldogs, Ellis was not only a scoring machine but a leader on and off the court. His high school career culminated in 1958, a year that forever cemented his legacy in Tennessee basketball.

Ellis graduated from Hampton High School in 1958 with numerous accolades. That year, he was voted All-State and All-American, a testament to his dominance on the court. His senior season saw him lead the Bulldogs to an incredible 41-3 record, a feat that included sweeping honors like All-Watauga Conference, All-District, All-Regional, and All-State selections. Perhaps his greatest individual achievement during this period was setting the all-time scoring record for Hampton High School, amassing 2,471 points over his career—a record that still stands today.

Ellis’ scoring skill was not limited to his high school team. He also set the Watauga Conference scoring record, further establishing himself as one of the best players to come out of the region. In 1958, Ellis led the entire state in scoring with 939 points, showcasing his ability to score at will, no matter the opponent. Whether it was a regular-season game or a high-stakes regional contest, Ellis always delivered for the Bulldogs.

One of the most remarkable games in his high school career came after graduation, when Ellis played for Collins Glass and Upholstery professionals in a post-graduation tournament. In a game against Blowing Rock, North Carolina, he scored an incredible 58 points, hitting 19 field goals and 20 free throws—a performance that remains one of the most memorable in his storied career. Earlier that same week, Ellis had put up 36 points against the Elizabethton Cyclones, further proving his readiness to shine on any stage.

His knack for scoring in big moments was also evident in the regional tournament, where he set another record with a 31-point outburst against Greenville. As the top scorer in Tennessee in 1958, Ellis was a force to be reckoned with and played a pivotal role in putting Hampton basketball on the map.

After graduating from Hampton, Ellis took his talents to Milligan College, where he continued to shine. As a freshman, he made an immediate impact, scoring 27 points against Union College in his first major performance. Just a few days later, he put up 31 points against Emory & Henry College, proving his high school dominance would carry over into the collegiate ranks.

Even after his college playing days, Ellis’ connection to Hampton basketball remained strong. In 1961, he returned to his alma mater for a special alumni game, teaming up with Willie Malone, the star of the 1960 State Champion Bulldogs. The alumni team triumphed, 59-48, with Ellis scoring 13 points and Malone adding 15. It was a nostalgic moment for the community and a reminder of the talent that had passed through the halls of Hampton High.

Ellis’ contributions to the game didn’t end with his playing days. He had a deep passion for coaching and spent much of his time mentoring young athletes, including his grandsons Josh, Dylan, and Nathanael. His love for the game and dedication to fostering young talent reflected his character, both as a player and as a man. Ellis believed in leading by example, a trait that made him a beloved figure not just in sports but in his community as well.

Outside of basketball, Ellis led a fulfilling life. He served his country as a U.S. Army veteran, where he continued to play basketball on the U.S. Army team. He worked on the Alaskan Pipeline and later started his own business, Ellis Insulation Company, which he ran until his retirement. He was also instrumental in starting City Market Deli alongside his daughter, Jennifer Hughes.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Ellis was a man of faith. He was a faithful member, deacon, and elder of Valley Forge Christian Church, where he lived out his commitment to service and community. His hobbies included coaching summer league basketball and restoring muscle cars, showcasing his wide range of interests and enduring energy.

Milburn Ellis’ legacy is one of greatness, both on and off the basketball court. His scoring records at Hampton High School remain untouched, and his impact on the community continues to be felt through the lives of the young athletes he coached and the family he loved. His story is one of talent, dedication, and an unyielding passion for the game of basketball—a story that will forever be remembered in the annals of East Tennessee sports history.