Unhappy information … Richard “Dick” Barnett, a permanent determine in New York Knicks historical past and a celebrated member of the Naismith Basketball Corridor of Fame, has handed away on the age of 88.
As reported by The New York Occasions, Barnett died peacefully in his sleep at an assisted dwelling facility in Largo, Florida. No official explanation for loss of life has been disclosed.
The Knicks honored Barnett’s legacy in a heartfelt message shared on X (previously Twitter) on Sunday, April 27.
“We’re terribly saddened to listen to in regards to the passing of Knicks legend Dr. Richard Barnett,” the workforce mentioned.
“All through his illustrious profession, Dick Barnett embodied all the pieces it meant to be a New York Knick, each on-and-off-the-court. He left a constructive impression on everybody he encountered, and this group is extremely lucky to have him be such an integral a part of its historical past.”
“His jersey will endlessly grasp within the rafters of Madison Sq. Backyard, and his play all through his profession will endlessly be part of Knicks followers’ recollections. Our ideas are together with his household, pals, and teammates on this tough time.”
Hailing from Gary, Indiana, Barnett rose to prominence at Tennessee A&I, now often known as Tennessee State College, the place he helped construct probably the most dominant packages in school basketball historical past. The Tigers received three consecutive NAIA nationwide titles beginning in 1957, with Barnett incomes All-American honors yearly and being named the NAIA Match’s Most Beneficial Participant twice.
Chosen fourth general within the 1959 NBA Draft by the Syracuse Nationals, Barnett additionally had stints with the Los Angeles Lakers earlier than becoming a member of the New York Knicks in 1965. He spent 9 seasons with the Knicks, averaging 15.6 factors per sport and taking part in an important function of their championship victories in 1970 and 1973. His signature “fall again, child” leap shot turned a part of Knicks folklore.