Byron Dean Tolson (born November 25, 1951) is an American former professional basketball player. Tolson played three seasons for the Seattle SuperSonics of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the Arkansas Razorbacks.

Professional career

Tolson was selected by the Seattle SuperSonics in the 5th round (8th pick, 80th overall) of the 1974 NBA draft, after completing his career at the University of Arkansas. He played three seasons for the SuperSonics, appearing in 80 games over his career. Tolson was also selected in the 7th round of the 1974 American Basketball Association Draft by the New York Nets. Following his NBA career, Tolson played eleven years internationally before returning to school to complete his education at the University of Arkansas. He played for Greek club AEK B.C. in the 1983–84 FIBA Korać Cup. In 2023, Dean Tolson's book, ‘Power Forward: My Journey from Illiterate NBA Player to a Magna Cum Laude Master's Degree,’ was published. A motivational speaker, he moved from Tacoma, Washington, and lives in Scottsdale, Arizona.