After becoming an all-American at the University of Texas in 1978, Denton spent nine seasons playing for the ATP Tour.

After retiring from the pros, he moved to Corpus Christi, Texas, coaching several local junior tennis teams.

In 2001, he debuted his college coaching career at Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, where he led his teams to three conference championships and a first-ever NCAA tournament appearance.

Along with teammate Kevin Curren, he won the U.S. Tennis Association amateur indoor and SWC doubles title in 1979.

He completed his college career with an 85–22 singles record, which currently ranks third all-time in school history.

Denton was known for his big serve and employed an unusual service motion which involved taking two steps forward prior to striking the ball.

[2] On August 8, 2006, Denton became the head men's tennis coach at Texas A&M University.