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Perry Wallace: The Collision of Race and Sports in the Deep South

Edward Reed

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Perry Wallace Playing Basketball For Vanderbilt University Strong Inside: Perry Wallace And The Collision Of Race And Sports In The South

Strong Inside: Perry Wallace and the Collision of Race and Sports in the South

by Andrew Maraniss

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5187 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	480 pages

Perry Wallace was a trailblazing African-American basketball player who played for Vanderbilt University in the 1960s. His story is a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by African-American athletes in the Deep South during that era. Wallace's courage and determination paved the way for future generations of athletes and helped to break down racial barriers in college sports.

Early Life and Career

Perry Wallace was born in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1948. He grew up in a segregated neighborhood and attended an all-black high school. Despite the challenges he faced, Wallace was a talented basketball player. He led his high school team to a state championship and was recruited by several major colleges.

In 1967, Wallace chose to attend Vanderbilt University. Vanderbilt was a predominantly white school located in the heart of the Deep South. Wallace knew that he would face discrimination and hostility from some fans and opponents, but he was determined to succeed.

Breaking the Color Barrier

Wallace made his Vanderbilt debut in the 1968-1969 season. He quickly became a star player, averaging over 20 points per game. However, he also faced constant racist taunts and threats from opposing fans.

One of the most infamous incidents occurred during a game against the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Mississippi. Wallace was subjected to a barrage of racial slurs and death threats from the Ole Miss fans. He was even hit by a water bottle thrown from the stands.

Despite the adversity he faced, Wallace refused to give up. He continued to play hard and lead his team to victory. His courage and determination inspired his teammates and helped to break down racial barriers in college sports.

Legacy

Perry Wallace's legacy is one of courage, determination, and perseverance. He was a pioneer who paved the way for future generations of African-American athletes. His story is a reminder of the challenges that African-Americans faced during the Civil Rights era, and it is a testament to the power of sports to break down racial barriers.

In 2004, Wallace was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. He is also the subject of a documentary film, "The Best of Enemies," which tells the story of his groundbreaking season at Vanderbilt.

Perry Wallace's story is an inspiration to us all. It is a reminder that we must never give up on our dreams, no matter how difficult the challenges may seem. It is also a reminder that we must all work together to break down racial barriers and create a more just and equitable society.

Strong Inside: Perry Wallace and the Collision of Race and Sports in the South

by Andrew Maraniss

4.7 out of 5