Almer Lee was a pioneer in both Fort Smith at the University of Arkansas but the state lost a legend as he passed away at the age of 63 on Sunday.
Lee was the first African-American basketball letterman for the Razorbacks when he lettered in 1970. Lee also lettered the following season in 1971.
“I want to extend our thoughts and prayers to Almer’s wife, Evelyn, and all the family and friends of this great Razorback,” Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Jeff Long said. “Almer was not only an outstanding basketball player, but helped pave the way for future opportunities for African-American student-athletes at the University of Arkansas. Following his career, he continued to follow the Razorbacks in his beloved home state and will always be remembered as part of the Razorback Family.”
Lee was inducted into the Arkansas Hall of Honor in 2011.
“It’s significant now because you’re always remembered,” Lee said at the time of his induction. “Once you’re a Razorback, you’re a Razorback for life. They don’t forget you. I’m very humbled about this, just to be honored and be among several great athletes in Arkansas history. It’s a great honor to be in the same category as these other athletes, and I’m lucky to be a part of it.”
Lee averaged 17 points a game in the 1969-70 season for the Hogs and was named the Southwest Conference Sophomore of the Year. The following season Lee averaged more than 19 points, including 20.6 in league play. Lee scored a career high 30 points against Texas A&M that season.
“I want to extend condolences to his family on the passing of a true, true Razorback,” Arkansas basketball coach Mike Anderson said.
Lee was inducted into the Northside Hall of Honor in 2007, where he was a standout for coach Gayle Kaundart.
Lee earned all-state and All-American honors at Northside and was named MVP of the state tournament and the high school all star game.
“He could dribble, could shoot and wasn’t old style at all and coach Kaundart adjusted to that style like all good coaches do,” Fort Smith athletic director Jim Rowland said. “I remember going to practice and watching him in games and he was a great player. He meant a lot to Northside High School. Had a great career at Arkansas and was just a great ambassador for the game of basketball. He truly was a great player and a great man.”
