HBCU basketball and NBA are mourning the lack of considered one of its true legends. Dr. Dick Barnett, an icon each at Tennessee State College and within the NBA, has handed away on the age of 88.
Earlier than he grew to become a New York Knicks star and a two-time NBA champion, Dick Barnett constructed his legacy at Tennessee State, then generally known as Tennessee A&I. Underneath legendary coach John McLendon, Barnett helped information Tennessee A&I to a few consecutive NAIA nationwide championships from 1957 to 1959 — the primary time a traditionally Black school or college (HBCU) captured a nationwide title in any collegiate sport. His signature “fall-back child” bounce shot grew to become an indicator transfer in school basketball, and his electrifying play helped put Tennessee State on the nationwide map.
https://hbcugameday.com/2024/10/14/nba-champion-hbcu-legend-enshrined-in-hall-of-fame/Barnett’s accomplishments at Tennessee State had been groundbreaking. He was a three-time All-American and left this system as its all-time main scorer. His dominance on the court docket and management off of it mirrored the resilience, excellence, and pleasure of HBCU athletics throughout a time when Black athletes had few avenues to shine on the nationwide stage.
After his collegiate success, Barnett went on to a storied skilled profession. He was chosen fourth general within the 1959 NBA Draft by the Syracuse Nationals, and he finally grew to become a key determine within the New York Knicks’ championship groups of 1970 and 1973. Identified for his fearless play and clutch capturing, Barnett embodied all the pieces it meant to be a New York Knick, each on and off the court docket. Because the Knicks famous, “He left a constructive affect on everybody he encountered, and this group is extremely lucky to have him be such an integral a part of its historical past.”
Barnett’s No. 12 jersey now hangs within the rafters of Madison Sq. Backyard, however his affect stretched far past basketball. After retiring, he pursued greater training vigorously, incomes a Ph.D. in training from Fordham College. All through his life, he championed the significance of training and civil rights, making it his mission to encourage future generations.
Tennessee State College expressed deep unhappiness at his passing, stating: “The TSU household mourns the lack of considered one of its biggest legends. Dr. Barnett not solely introduced nationwide recognition to our college via his unimaginable basketball achievements but in addition continued to carry up TSU all through his life as an envoy and advocate.”
Barnett’s story is considered one of triumph in opposition to the percentages, blazing trails for HBCU athletes who would comply with in his footsteps. His legacy is without end etched not simply in Tennessee State historical past, however within the broader story of American sports activities and social progress.
As HBCUs proceed to nurture expertise and construct pleasure throughout generations, the contributions of giants like Dr. Dick Barnett function a basis. His jersey will without end grasp within the rafters, and his story will without end encourage.
HBCU Gameday extends our heartfelt condolences to his household, associates, former teammates, and all the Tennessee State and New York Knicks communities.
Relaxation in Energy, Dr. Barnett.
