Former NBA forward Barry Clemens, who started his professional career with the New York Knicks, has died. He was 83 years old. The news comes as the current Knicks squad holds a 3-2 record in their last five games, most recently beating the Brooklyn Nets 103-90 on November 2.
Barry Clemens was a 6-foot-7 forward drafted by the New York Knicks with the 19th overall pick in the 1965 NBA Draft. He played his college basketball at Ohio Wesleyan, where he scored 1,905 points over four seasons. Clemens was a first-team All-OAC selection every year and a two-time All-American. He was named the Ohio Athletic Conference's Most Valuable Player as a senior.
His NBA journey lasted 11 seasons. After his start in New York, Clemens played for the Chicago Bulls, Seattle SuperSonics, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Portland Trail Blazers. Over his career, he averaged 6.7 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. His best statistical season was in 1967-68 with the Bulls, where he posted career highs of 9.3 points and 4.8 rebounds per contest.
The Cleveland Cavaliers organization, where Clemens played 143 games from 1972 to 1974, posted a tribute on Facebook. "The Cleveland Cavaliers and Rock Entertainment Group are saddened to learn of the passing of former Cavalier, Barry Clemens," the statement read. It highlighted his Ohio roots as a Dayton native and his 2009 induction into the Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame. The team extended its thoughts to his family and friends.
Clemens's legacy is firmly tied to his home state and his consistent, professional career. He was a reliable role player during an era that spanned the late 1960s and into the mid-1970s. His path from a standout at a small Ohio college to a first-round NBA draft pick remains a significant part of his story.
The remembrance of a franchise alumnus arrives during a busy stretch for the modern Knicks. The team's recent form shows three wins and two losses in their last five outings. That run includes the victory over Brooklyn and a high-scoring 133-127 road win against the Chicago Bulls on October 28. They also suffered a narrow 98-93 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on October 30.
Looking ahead, the schedule doesn't let up. The Knicks are set to host the Chicago Bulls at Madison Square Garden on November 4. It's a quick rematch after that offensive shootout just a week prior. Fans can track the team's upcoming games on our schedule page. The senior squad will aim to honor the franchise's past by building a successful present.
Barry Clemens's passing is a moment to reflect on the long history of the New York Knicks. From draft picks like Clemens in the 1960s to today's roster, the thread of players who have worn the orange and blue continues. His contributions, both in New York and across the league, are part of that enduring narrative.
