Mississippi Valley State University Athletics

Felton Young, born on July 30,1955, in New Orleans, Louisiana, made his mark early as a standout basketball player at Holy Cross High School in New Orleans, graduating in 1974. A towering 7-foot center, he continued his athletic and academic journey after high school at Jacksonville University, where he played collegiate basketball and earned his degree in 1978. 

That same year, Young was selected in the 8th round of the NBA Draft by the Buffalo Braves (later known as the San Diego Clippers). Following the end of his professional basketball career, he returned home to Louisana, where he gave back to his community working as a teacher and coach in the Orleans Parish School District. 

Young, in later years, relocated to Memphis,Tennessee, where he spent 27 years devoted to education and athletics within the Memphis City and Shelby County School Districts. Throughout his career, he has been a passionate advocate for youth development, combining his experience in sports with a commitment to education. This value became a family value, passed down through multiple generations. 

Since 2011, Young has served as the Chief Financial Officer of The Young For Youth Foundation, and since 2018, the CFO Reform Sports Training — both organizations founded and operated by his son, NBA veteran Thaddeus Young. In addition to his leadership roles, Felton continues to actively mentor and train young athletes in Memphis, helping them pursue their academic and athletic aspirations. 

Most recently, for the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 seasons, he joining Mississippy Valley State University as an Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach, where he continues to bring his knowledge, leadership, and passion for the game to the next generation of student-athletes. 

In recognition of his lifelong contributions to basketball and youth development, Felton Young was inducted into the Holy Cross High School Hall of Fame on April 12, 2025.