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Dick Barnett
1936 - 2025
Dick Barnett
1936 - 2025
Obituary
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BORN
1936
DIED
2025
Dick Barnett Obituary
Dick Barnett, a Hall of Fame basketball player with the New York Knicks known for his "fall back, baby" jump shot, died April 27, 2025, in Largo, Florida at the age of 88.
Barnett was a major college basketball star with Tennessee A&I State College, now Tennessee State University, earning three AP Little College All-American nods, winning three consecutive National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) championships, and earning induction into the Indiana Basketball, Tennessee Sports, National Collegiate Basketball, and Small College Basketball halls of fame. Barnett was drafted into the NBA in 1959. He earned the nickname "Fall Back Baby," which was coined by L.A. Lakers announcer Chick Hearn, for his distinctive jump shot. Barnett became a star with the New York Knicks, playing with the team from 1965 to 1973, making the All-Star Game in 1968, and winning championships with the team in 1970 and 1973. He retired after the 1974 season, and in 2024 he was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. After his basketball career, he earned a PhD in education from Fordham University and taught sports management at St. John's University.
Athlete and philanthropist Jason Wallace paid tribute to Barnett on the social media platform X, saying: "One of the great Knicks and one of my first mentors. I'm so glad he got his flowers last year when he got inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame. My guy forever."
By Eric San Juan
(Image: Omar Rawlings/Getty Images)
16 Entries
Sharon Haymer
July 14, 2025
So proud of your many accomplishments. RIP
Kenneth Hunt
May 19, 2025
My Uncle Dr.Robert Clark #30 and Dr.Barnett #35 were room mates at Tennessee State University and play together 4 years Dr. Barnett dreams had came true Right up into his final days,so happy it all worked out. He once told me that he was working on getting the team into NBA Hall of Fame and to the White House. His dreams all had came true.He was Great ball player but a better human being.RIP
Harold Hunter, Jr
May 17, 2025
To the Family and Friends of Mister Dick Barnett
I hope this letter finds you well. I write to you with a heart full of both pride and sorrow as a member of the Hunter family, reflecting on the remarkable legacy of Dick Barnett. His contributions to Tennessee State A&I's historic achievements and his role in breaking barriers for African American athletes will forever be etched in history.
My father, Harold Hunter, had the privilege of serving as an assistant coach during those transformative years. Together, they forged a path that not only brought glory to the university but also inspired countless individuals to dream big.
Dick Barnett's dedication, resilience, and talent were emblematic of a generation that fought for equality and excellence in the face of adversity. His leadership on and off the court remains a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of perseverance.
As we bid farewell to a legend, let us also celebrate a life well-lived, a trailblazer whose impact will echo for generations to come. May his memory continue to inspire us all to strive for greatness and to champion the causes that truly matter.
With deepest gratitude and sorrow, Thank You
Dr. Dick Barnett. Rest in peace.
Harold Hunter, Jr and the
Hunter Family
Linda
May 10, 2025
My prayers and condolences to Dick Barnett's family. I was in high school when Dick Barnett, Walt Frazier, Bill Bradley and Willis Reed led the Knicks to a couple of championships. My favorite team at the time. I enjoyed watching the games with my father and uncles. I always referred to Mr. Barnett as "Tricky Dick Barnett" because he would have a way of falling down after a shot and drawing the foul. What a legend. Rest in peace.
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Charles Morton
May 6, 2025
Mark Carroll
May 3, 2025
I was fortunate to see you play at MSG in the early 70's when my dad took me and my brother to NY Knicks home games. Thanks for the memories and, "Soar High, Baby!"
Liz
May 3, 2025
Condolences to the family and friends. May God grant you the peace that only comes from him so you can cope with your pain. Sorry for your loss.
Janelle Almendis
May 2, 2025
May God Grant You peace!
Jewell Rollen
April 30, 2025
Forever Rest in Big Blue Paradise Dr B'! I'll miss your calls
DB
April 30, 2025
May family and friends receive comfort from the God of all comfort during this time of loss and beyond
Joe DeSapio
April 29, 2025
I grew up in Stuyvesant town in the 70s and 80s. Dick Barnett was a regular in the basketball playgrounds and I had the pleasure of playing with him a lot. He was a real gentleman and always gave me pointers to help improve my game. RIP You´re a true Knick legend.
Chris
April 29, 2025
I offer my sincere condolences to the family of Dick Barnett. May our Lord give you comfort and peace as you mourn the loss of your loved one.
Bob Bainter
April 29, 2025
Dick Barnett and Bill Bradley....what a thrill winning NBA championships. I was glued to the screen and cheering wildly. RIP my favorite jump-shooter.
Ted Petine
April 29, 2025
Mr.Barnett i grew up i n the 70's when the knicks were on top of the world.You were amongst my favorites along with Clyde,Debusher,Bradley,Reed.May you rest in peace.My condolences to you family.
Phil Sirigiano
April 29, 2025
A great team player. And always ready to play with no baggage.
Elizabeth Bell
April 28, 2025
RIP my condolences
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