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Merrill A. "Duster" Thomas

  • Class
    1928
  • Induction
    1989
  • Sport(s)
    Baseball, Men's Basketball

“Duster,” as he was affectionately known, is hailed as one of Illinois’ all-time best high school basketball coaches. His Pinckneyville Panthers, over a span of 19 years, had an incredible record of 483 wins and only 133 losses, a winning percentage of .784. During his final seven seasons, he sent his team to the “Sweet 16” every year and compiled a record of 212-25. He also coached football, track, and tennis over a period of 36 years at Pinckneyville. Was a baseball letterman at IC.
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