LBW COMMUNITY COLLEGE HONORS BASKETBALL COACH RICKY KNIGHT AS HE SETS TO RETIRE AFTER 40 YEARS

LBW Community College announces the retirement of Coach Ricky Knight, who has dedicated 40 years of service as the head coach of the men’s and women’s basketball teams. Coach Knight will be recognized for his distinguished career prior to the final home game of the season on Feb. 17, 2025, at the Seth Hammett Gymnasium, as he prepares for retirement following the conclusion of the season.

Knight began his basketball journey at Andalusia High School, where he graduated in 1977 under the leadership of Head Coach Richard Robertson. He was named an AHSAA All-State Honorable Mention in 1977, marking the start of his impactful basketball career. He continued his athletic journey at the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) from 1977-1981, playing under Head Coach K.O. Willis. While at UAH, Knight received several accolades, including the UAH Charger Award in 1978, a spot on the Southern State Athletic Conference All-Conference Team in 1979, and UAH Charger Player of the Month in March 1981. In 1991, Coach Knight was inducted into the University of Alabama Huntsville Hall of Honor, solidifying his legacy at his alma mater.

Following his college career, Knight played professionally overseas for three years, competing in countries including Spain, Brazil, Australia, and Argentina.

Knight transitioned into coaching, first serving as an assistant coach at UAH from 1983-1984, before becoming the head coach of the men's program at UAH in 1984-1985. He began his coaching career at LBW in the fall of 1985.

Throughout his career at LBW, Coach Knight achieved remarkable success, leading the women’s basketball team to two state championships and multiple national tournament appearances. Under his leadership, the women’s team won four conference championships, while the men’s team captured three conference titles. His career has been further distinguished by numerous coaching awards, including:

NJCAA Region 22 Coach of the Year (1988, women’s), Alabama Junior College Athletic Association Champions (1989, women’s), NJCAA National Tournament Appearance (1989, women’s), Alabama Junior College Conference Coach of the Year (1991-1992, women’s), Alabama Junior College Conference Coach of the Year Southern Division (1994-1995), Alabama Junior College Conference Coach of the Year Division II (2003-2004, women’s), Alabama Community College Conference Southern League Coach of the Year (2004-2005, women’s), Alabama Community College Conference South Division Coach of the Year (2013-2014, men’s), Alabama Community College Conference South Division Coach of the Year (2017-2018, men’s), and Birmingham Tip-Off Club Junior College Coach of the Year (2014).

Coach Knight’s impact extends beyond the basketball court. His leadership was instrumental in developing LBW’s athletic programs into one of the most respected in the region. His dedication to excellence in both athletics and academics has left a lasting legacy at the college. Through his mentorship, many of his players have gone on to successful careers in basketball and beyond, and he remains highly regarded by former players and colleagues alike.

LBW Community College President, Dr. Brock Kelley said, “Coach Knight is a true legend in the world of college athletics, and his influence on our basketball program has been immeasurable. His leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to our students have set a high standard that will be felt for many years to come. We are grateful for his remarkable service and wish him the very best in his well-deserved retirement.”

To honor Coach Knight’s remarkable career, LBW will host a recognition ceremony prior to the home basketball game against Marion Military Institute on Monday, Feb. 17, 2025, at approximately 5:45 p.m. at the Seth Hammett Gymnasium. Fans, alumni and friends are invited to attend this event to celebrate Coach Knight’s exceptional legacy.

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