Former men's basketball point-guard Obie Trotter was named the SWAC's Player of the Decade by Rivals.com. Trotter finished his playing career in 2006 as one of the most decorated student-athletes to ever wear the maroon and white, in any sport. He averaged 15.1 points over his four-year career, and was a two-time All-America selection. Trotter led the country in steals during the 2004-05 season.

In 2004-05 he swept the conference individual honors being named SWAC Player of the Year, SWAC Defensive Player of the year, and the SWAC Tournament Most Valuable Player. He led the Bulldogs to conference regular season and tournament titles and a berth in the NCAA Division-I Tournament. All told, Trotter was a three-time all-SWAC first team selection and twice named the league's Defensive Player of the Year. He ranks seventh all-time in NCAA Division-I with 346 steals. For his career, he finished with 1726 points, 484 rebounds, 466 assists, and 24 blocks.