Dick Barnett, a New York Knicks legend and the man behind the signature “Fall Back Baby” shot, has passed away at the age of 88.
The news of his death was announced on April 27, 2025, almost exactly one year after he was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Barnett died peacefully in his sleep at an assisted living facility in Largo, Florida, though the cause of death has not been revealed.
The New York Knicks paid tribute to the late star with a heartfelt post on social media, calling Dick Barnett “an integral part of its history.” The Knicks organization honored him for embodying everything it meant to be a part of the team, both on and off the court. His jersey will forever hang in the rafters at Madison Square Garden, and his impact on the Knicks and their fans will never be forgotten.
Dick Barnett was known for his distinctive playing style, with his left-handed shot, famously dubbed “Fall Back Baby,” becoming a signature move that fans remember to this day. He had an impressive 14-season career in the NBA, with the final nine of those seasons spent with the New York Knicks. During his time with the team, he helped lead them to two NBA championships, one in 1970 and another in 1973.
In his 1971 memoir, Knicks head coach Red Holzman praised Dick Barnett’s sharp basketball instincts, noting his ability to grasp the game faster than anyone else on the court. By the time Barnett retired in the 1973-1974 season, he had accumulated 15,358 career points, averaging 15.8 points per game.
Off the court, Dick Barnett was as impressive as he was on it. While playing for the Knicks, he earned a master’s degree in public administration from New York University. Later, in 1991, he earned a doctorate in education from Fordham University. After retiring from basketball, Barnett went on to teach sports management at St. John’s University in New York City and launched a publishing brand called Fall Back Baby Productions. Through this, he wrote poetry and thoughtful think pieces, leaving behind a legacy that extended beyond basketball.
The loss of Dick Barnett is felt deeply by Knicks fans and basketball enthusiasts alike. His contribution to the game and his memorable moments on the court will continue to live on in the hearts of those who admired him.
