Basketball Hall of Famer Dick Barnett, who played guard in both of the New York Knicks’ NBA championship seasons, has died, the team announced on Sunday. He was 88.
Barnett died in his sleep overnight at an assisted living facility in Largo, Fla., according to multiple media reports. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2024 as a player and as a three-time All-America for Tennessee A&I (now Tennessee State) teams that won three straight NAIA championships from 1957 to 1959, marking the first HBCU program to win a national title in basketball.
“Throughout his illustrious career, Dick Barnett embodied everything it meant to be a New York Knick, both on and off the court,” the Knicks said in a statement. “He left a positive impact on everyone he encountered and this organization is incredibly fortunate to have him be such an integral part of its history. His jersey will forever hang in the rafters of Madison Square Garden, and his play throughout his career will forever be a part of Knicks fans' memories.”
The Knicks won NBA crowns in 1970 and 1973 with large contributions from Barnett, a 6-foot-4 all-around player known for his unique “fall back, baby” shooting style. His legs flew backward when the left-hander shot jumpers. It worked for the native of Gary, Ind., who was selected by the Syracuse Nationals with the fifth overall pick of the 1959 NBA Draft.
Barnett played for Syracuse for two seasons (1959-61) and one season for the Cleveland Pipers of the American Basketball League (1961-62). He returned to the NBA with the Los Angeles Lakers (1962-65) and finished his 14-year career with the Knicks (1965-74).
An All-Star in the 1967-68 season, Barnett averaged 15.8 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 29.8 minutes in 971 NBA regular-season games. He also averaged 15.1 points, 2.7 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 27.3 minutes in 102 playoff games.
In nine seasons with the Knicks from 1965-66 to 1973-74, Barnett became a key contributor to the team's success, averaging 15.6 points and 2.9 assists across 604 games. He was named an All-Star during the 1967-68 season, earning recognition for his skills and contributions on the court.
In 1990, the Knicks honored Barnett by retiring his jersey number 12, a testament to his impact on the franchise and his legacy as one of the greats in Knicks history. Barnett’s scoring prowess placed him ninth on the franchise’s all-time scoring list, with a total of 9,442 points.
As a player, Barnett was known for his unorthodox shooting style, which became a signature of his game. His ability to make shots while seemingly defying physics with his backward lean earned him a place in the hearts of Knicks fans.
Born in Gary, Indiana, on October 2, 1936, Barnett’s journey to basketball greatness began at Tennessee Agricultural and Industrial State University, where he led the team to three consecutive NAIA championships. His achievements at Tennessee A&I were significant, as the program became the first historically black college/university to win a national basketball crown.
Barnett’s Hall of Fame election was celebrated widely, and his passing comes almost exactly one year after he received this honor. The Knicks expressed their condolences, stating, “Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and teammates in this difficult time.”
In addition to his contributions on the court, Barnett’s character and influence extended beyond basketball. He was remembered fondly by teammates and fans alike for his positive impact and dedication to the game.
The basketball community mourns the loss of a true icon, whose legacy will live on through the memories of his remarkable career and the impact he made on the sport. As the Knicks continue to honor his memory, Barnett’s contributions will remain a significant part of the franchise's history.
As fans reflect on Barnett’s life and career, they celebrate not only his achievements on the hardwood but also the spirit and tenacity he brought to the game. His legacy as a player, teammate, and ambassador for the sport will be cherished for generations to come.
In conclusion, Dick Barnett's passing marks a significant moment in basketball history. His contributions to the Knicks and the sport as a whole will be remembered, and his influence will resonate with players and fans alike for years to come.
