Dick Barnett, Champion Knick With a Singular Jump Shot, Dies at 88
Dick Barnett, a former NBA player and champion with the New York Knicks, passed away at the age of 88. Barnett was known for his unique and effective jump shot, which earned him the nickname “Fall Back Baby.”
Barnett was born in Gary, Indiana in 1936 and went on to have a successful basketball career at Tennessee State University. He was selected by the Syracuse Nationals in the 1959 NBA Draft and played for several teams before joining the Knicks in 1965.
During his time with the Knicks, Barnett was an integral part of the team that won the NBA Championship in 1970. He was known for his smooth shooting stroke and ability to create space for his shot with his signature fall-back move. Barnett’s jump shot was a thing of beauty, and he was widely regarded as one of the best shooters of his era.
Off the court, Barnett was known for his intelligence and eloquence. He was a strong advocate for civil rights and social justice, and he used his platform as a professional athlete to speak out on important issues.
After retiring from basketball, Barnett went on to have a successful career as a broadcaster and educator. He was inducted into the Tennessee State University Hall of Fame in 1988 and the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame in 2003.
Barnett’s impact on the game of basketball and on society as a whole will not be forgotten. His jump shot was a thing of beauty, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of basketball fans everywhere. Rest in peace, Dick Barnett.