The Alabama Department of Athletics has established the C.M. Newton Memorial Scholarship, which will benefit a men’s basketball student-athlete. Newton, a Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer who coached the Crimson Tide from 1968-80, passed away on June 4 at the age of 88.

“We wanted to find another way to have Coach Newton’s legacy live on at The University of Alabama,” said Alabama Director of Athletics Greg Byrne. “After consulting with the Newton family, we decided that endowing a scholarship to benefit a men’s basketball student-athlete in his honor would be a fitting tribute to a man who has meant so much to this program and our University. Coach Newton’s impact is something that will never be forgotten, and this scholarship is just another way for us to recognize his contributions.”

“What a terrific way to honor a person who meant so much to so many,” said Alabama Head Men’s Basketball Coach Avery Johnson. “Coach Newton opened doors for people who may not have otherwise had an opportunity, and this endowment will ensure that his legacy will continue to carry on in the way he lived his life. I want to thank the Newton family, The University of Alabama administration and the athletics department leadership for launching this effort in C.M. Newton’s name.”

Those wishing to donate to the C.M. Newton Memorial Scholarship may do so through the Crimson Tide Foundation. Gifts can be submitted online, over the phone with a credit card by calling 205-348-9727 or by check, which should be made out to Crimson Tide Foundation, noting the C.M. Newton Memorial Scholarship, and sent to Box 870343, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487.

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