Orsie Graves - Class of 1940

Orsie Graves was born on March 15, 1922, in Sparks, Nevada in a little house on 7th Street. He became an outstanding athlete at Sparks Junior High, and at Sparks High. His activities included: football, basketball, drama, band, tennis, and student council. He was a part of the 1940 state basketball championship team.

Upon graduation, he immediately enrolled at UNR but delayed his studies to join the Army Air Corps Cadet Program to serve in WWII. He qualified as a pilot of a B-24. After his service in the Army, Orsie Graves returned to UNR and finished both his undergraduate and graduate degrees. While attending UNR, Orsie was part of the basketball and cross-country teams, as well as the president of the Sigma Nu Fraternity.

Orsie Graves’ career in teaching started in Fallon. One year later he returned to Sparks and taught at Sparks Junior High. He also coached the eighth grade basketball team and the Sparks High freshman football team for two years. Orsie transferred to Sparks High in 1956. He coached varsity golf and JV football. His biggest highlight was his varsity basketball-coaching career.

Orsie Graves retired in 1987. Being an outstanding athlete, teacher, coach and administrator, he was inducted into the NIAA Hall of Fame. Orsie Graves dedicated his time after retirement to the Sparks Heritage Museum and was a member of the original Board of Directors. The Sparks High School Gymnasium was dedicated to the memory of Orsie Graves during the 2002 basketball season.

Inducted 2005