Union Commonwealth University proudly celebrates the 90th birthday of one of its most cherished figures, Dr. Paul “Pete” Moore, whose name and legacy are forever woven into the history of Union.

A native of Radford, Virginia, Moore graduated from Union in 1959 after excelling in five sports—basketball, baseball, track, tennis, and golf. As a student, he was elected Mr. Union, led the U Club, and was active in several campus organizations before earning a master’s degree from the University of Tennessee and a doctorate from the University of Alabama.

Moore returned to his alma mater in 1962 to lead the men’s basketball program, guiding the Bulldogs for two decades. Under his leadership, Union achieved four 20-win seasons—a first in school history—and recorded its first 27-win season in 1967–68, when the Bulldogs claimed the district title and advanced to the NAIA National Tournament in Kansas City.

During his tenure, Moore was named KIAC Coach of the Year four times and NAIA District Coach of the Year in both 1968 and 1978. He later served as Director of Athletics and as a professor of Health and Education, shaping generations of students both on and off the court. Beyond campus, he served faithfully as an elder, board chairman, and Sunday school teacher at Barbourville First Christian Church.

In recognition of his remarkable legacy, Union will dedicate its basketball floor as Pete Moore Court on Wednesday, December 3, during the Union vs. Bluefield matchup. The dedication was originally planned for Homecoming but postponed to allow Coach Moore time to recover following recent health concerns. With his strength renewed, the University is thrilled to welcome him back to campus to celebrate this long-awaited honor with his family, friends, and former players.