Alabama has announced the creation of the C.M. Newton Memorial Scholarship, which will be given to a men’s basketball student-athlete.
Newton, who built an unparalleled legacy in the SEC, passed away on June 4 at the age of 88.
Newton played for Adolph Rupp at Kentucky before going on to coach at Alabama and Vanderbilt. After his coaching career, he went back to Lexington to serve as the school’s athletic director from 1989 to 2000.
Alabama Athletics Establishes C.M. Newton Memorial Scholarship for Men’s Basketball https://t.co/3RdgESfdat
— Alabama Men’s Basketball (@AlabamaMBB) June 11, 2018
“We wanted to find another way to have Coach Newton’s legacy live on at The University of Alabama,” said Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne in an official release. “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.”
Alabama head coach Avery Johnson also commented on Newton’s impact on the program.
“What a terrific way to honor a person who meant so much to so many,” said 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.”
For those wishing to donate to the C.M. Newton Memorial Scholarship, you may submit gifts online, over the phone by calling 205-348-9727, or by check.
All checks should be made out to Crimson Tide Foundation, noting the C.M. Newton Memorial Scholarship, and sent to Box 870343, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487.