John McLendon is a historical connection between Duke and Kansas
The Hall of Fame coach was a mentee to James Naismith and the orchestrator of the ‘secret game,’ one of the first integrated sporting events in the Jim Crow South
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John McLendon, Jr. Biography
John McLendon was a pioneer in the field of athletics, the game of basketball, and the civil rights arena. The John McLendon Foundation honors his legacy with by providing minorities access and opportunity through its scholarship program and leadership initiative. Learn more about McLendon’s inspiring life.
Foundation History
Since our creation in 1999, the John McLendon Foundation has granted over 130 scholarships to students who intend on pursuing an advanced degree in the field of athletics administration. In addition, the Foundation has impacted many aspiring leaders through the McLendon Leadership Initiative.