Dick Barnett
Inducted:
2024
Player Stats
Stats:
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
190 lb (86 kg)
Born:
October 2, 1936
Gary, Indiana, U.S.
Position:
Shooting guard
College:
Tennessee State (1955–1959)
Dick Barnett was a key figure in NBA history, known for his unorthodox but effective jump shot and championship pedigree. A standout at Tennessee State University, he led his team to three consecutive NAIA championships before being drafted by the Syracuse Nationals in 1959.
Barnett later played for the Los Angeles Lakers before finding his true home with the New York Knicks, where he became an essential part of their success in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Barnett was a crucial member of the Knicks' 1970 NBA championship team, playing alongside legends like Willis Reed and Walt Frazier.
His signature "fall-back baby" jump shot was nearly impossible to defend, and he provided steady scoring and leadership throughout his career. Over 14 NBA seasons, Barnett scored more than 15,000 points and was known for his intelligence both on and off the court, earning a Ph.D. after his playing days.
Barnett's Awards
- 2× NBA champion (1970, 1973)
- NBA All-Star (1968)
- ABL champion (1962)
- All-ABL First Team (1962)
- 12 retired by New York Knicks
- 3× NAIA champion (1957–1959)
- 3× AP Little College All-American (1957–1959)
- 2× UPI Little College All-American (1958, 1959)
- 2× NAIA tournament MVP (1958, 1959)
NBA Teams
Syracuse Nationals 1959–1961
Los Angeles Lakers 1962–1965
New York Knicks 1965–1973
NBA draft:
1959: 1st round, 4th overall pick
Syracuse Nationals
Numbers Worn:
5, 12
NBA Stats
Seasons:
14
Games Played:
971
Points:
15,358 (15.0 PPG)
Rebounds:
2,812 (2.9 RPG)
Assists:
2,729 (2.8 apg)
FG%
45.6
FT%
76.1