NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – TSU’s legendary Dr. Richard Barnett will be posthumously inducted into the National Black College Alumni (NBCA) Hall of Fame, celebrating his remarkable legacy as a basketball player, educator, and advocate for civil rights and youth empowerment.
The NBCA Hall of Fame Foundation, Inc., will host its 40th Annual Induction Ceremony on Sept. 27 in Atlanta, Georgia. The event honors graduates of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) who have made significant contributions in their fields.
Dr. Barnett, who died in April, leaves a lasting legacy in athletics, education, and mentorship. Born in Gary, Indiana, on October 2, 1936, he began his basketball journey at Tennessee A&I State College (now TSU), where he led the Tigers to three consecutive NAIA national championships from 1957 to 1959 under legendary coach John McLendon. He was a three-time All-American, two-time NAIA Tournament MVP, and remains the only player to have his jersey retired by the university.
Following college, Barnett was selected fourth overall in the 1959 NBA Draft by the Syracuse Nationals and went on to a 14-year professional career. He became a household name with the Los Angeles Lakers and later the New York Knicks, where his signature “Fall Back Baby” jump shot became iconic. He helped the Knicks secure NBA championships in 1970 and 1973, and in 1990, the franchise retired his No. 12 jersey.
Beyond the court, Barnett distinguished himself as a scholar and educator. He earned a master’s degree from New York University and a doctorate in education from Fordham University. He taught sports management at St. John’s University, founded Fall Back Baby Productions, and established the Dr. Richard Barnett Foundation to inspire and support youth. His influence extended far beyond basketball, as he championed education, civil rights, and opportunities for the next generation.
In 2024, Barnett’s remarkable career and lifelong basketball dedication were celebrated with his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. His induction into the NBCA Hall of Fame now places him among more than 300 distinguished HBCU graduates celebrated for their achievements and impact.
The NBCA Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is part of a weekend that includes the Competition of Black College Queens, the Thomas W. Dortch, Jr. HBCU Golf Classic, and a range of leadership and empowerment events for HBCU students and alumni.
For more information on the NBCA Hall of Fame Foundation and its programs, visit www.nbcahof.org.