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LBW Community College paid tribute to longtime basketball coach Ricky Knight during a pregame ceremony in his final home game against Marion Military Institute at the Seth Hammett Gymnasium on Monday, Feb. 17.

Knight, who has served as the men’s and women’s head coach of the Saints basketball program since 1985, is retiring after the season. LBWCC President Dr. Brock Kelley presented him with a special plaque for 40 years of service.

“Our college is honored to recognize Coach Ricky Knight for an incredible milestone in college athletics. Forty years of dedication on and off the court as the head coach for the Saints basketball team has cemented him as a legend in collegiate sports. Coach Knight has been an integral part of the Saints family since 1985 and is a true difference maker. His impact on his players’ lives has been immeasurable, and he is a steadfast pillar for this community,” Kelley said.

Knight’s basketball journey began at Andalusia High School, where he graduated in 1977 under the leadership of head coach Richard Robertson. He continued his athletic journey at the University of Alabama in Huntsville from 1977 to 1981.

Following his college career, Knight played professionally overseas for three years in Spain, Brazil, Australia, and Argentina. Knight transitioned into coaching and served as an assistant coach at UAH from 1983 and 1984, before becoming the head coach of the men’s program at UAH in 1984 and 1985. His coaching career at LBW began in the fall of 1985.

Andalusia Mayor Earl Johnson presented a resolution in Knight’s honor on behalf of the city.

“Coach Knight and I go back a long way. I came to his very first game when he came to LBW and am now here for his last game at LBW. It’s my honor to present this resolution to coach,” Johnson said.

Alabama Community College Conference Commissioner Dean Myrick and State Representative Matthew Hammett also presented Knight with honors. Hammett presented Knight with a resolution on behalf of the Alabama House of Representatives that commended his professional achievements and retirement from LBW Community College.

“We would like to thank everyone for coming and cheering on the Saints tonight. Coach Knight, as you walk off this gym floor, just know you will always be appreciated here and will always be a Saint,” Kelley said.

— Editor’s Note: More about Coach Knight will be featured in the upcoming edition of Absolutely Andalusia Magazine.