Lions Pride: 5 Unforgettable Athletes From University City High School

Sports run deep in University City, and University City High School has long been at the heart of it. It’s no surprise some standout talent once wore the Lions uniform. Today we're celebrating five unforgettable athletes from University City High School who made a name for themselves well beyond the hometown field.

1. David Bass – NFL Linebacker (Oakland Raiders)

Bass is a former NFL linebacker who attended University City High School, where he was a multi-sport standout and earned top defensive honors. He starred at Missouri Western State University, setting a school record with 40.5 career sacks, before being selected by the Oakland Raiders in the 2013 NFL Draft. Bass went on to play five seasons in the NFL with multiple teams and later transitioned into business as a franchise owner with “The Exercise Coach.” (Sources: USATodaySports, NFL.com, ChicagoBears.com)

2. Art Shamsky – MLB Outfielder & World Series Champion (Cincinnati Reds, New York Mets, Chicago Cubs, Oakland A’s)

Shamsky is a former MLB outfielder and World Series champion who attended University City High School, graduating at 16 before playing at the University of Missouri. He played in the majors from 1965-1972 with the Reds, Mets, Cubs and A’s, notably as a key member of the 1969 “Miracle Mets” and tying a record with four consecutive home runs in 1966. After retiring, Shamsky became a broadcaster, author and baseball coach, remaining a beloved figure in Mets history. (Sources: SABR.org, ArtShamsky.com, BaseballSavvy.com)

3. Ken Holtzman – MLB All‑Star Pitcher (Chicago Cubs, Oakland A’s, Baltimore Orioles, New York Yankees)

Holtzman was a professional left-handed MLB pitcher who attended University City High School before playing at the University of Illinois. Over a 15-season career (1965-1979) with the Cubs, Athletics, Orioles and Yankees, he earned two All-Star selections, pitched two no-hitters and won four World Series titles. After retiring, Holtzman remained involved in baseball through coaching and community work until his passing in 2024 at age 78. (Source: MLB.com, Baseball Reference, SABR.org)

4. Cecilia “Cissy” Lacks – Multi-Sport Star Athlete

Lacks, a multi-sport athlete in basketball, volleyball, field hockey and tennis, captained teams from the Class of 2024 and demonstrated strong leadership both on and off the field. Recognized by the UCHS Hall of Fame, she combined athletic excellence with academic achievement and student leadership, leaving a lasting impact on her school community. (Source: UCitySchools.org)

5. Tershawn Wharton – NFL Defensive End (Kansas City Chiefs, Carolina Panthers)

Wharton is a professional football defensive end who attended University City High School and starred at the University of Science and Technology, earning three First-Team All-GLVC honors. Undrafted in 2020, he signed with the Kansas City Chiefs, helping them win Super Bowl LVII and LVIII. In 2025 joined the Carolina Panthers, continuing his NFL career as a key pass rusher and run stopper. (Source: USATodaySports, DraftScout.com, SI.com)

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