NBA Hall of Famer Rick Barry delivered the keynote address at the 69th annual Gary Old-Timers Banquet in Hobart, Indiana on Wednesday, January 14, 2015.  During the event Barry spoke to a crowd of over 800 about his career and the lessons he learned during his 10 NBA seasons.  He also spoke about how his vision for free agency changed the sports world forever.

In 1967 he challenged the reserve clause in professional sports in court and went on to put that challenge to action in 1978 when that clause kept him tied to the Warriors for another season.  Instead of becoming a free agent, he was going to be tied to the team for the 1979 season without being able to seek a contract with another team.  Ultimately, the Warriors released him, but he paid dearly in his personal and professional life for the decision to challenge the ruling.

“I was Curt Flood before Curt Flood.  I changed basketball before baseball changed.” said Barry.  “It changed basketball.  You do what you have to do in life.  But looking back now, I was stupid.  I should’ve played one side against the other.  I would’ve made more money.”

The 2015 Old-Timers banquet honored Hall of Famer Mark Hoffman, who served as the head football coach at Valparaiso for 34 years.   During that time he also served as the athletic director and as a professor at the college. 

It was great event, with Barry entertaining the guests with stories of NBA glory and providing insights into his career.  After the event he met with fans, signed autographs and took pictures.  Barry is a class act, a true professional, and a living legend.

To inquire about Rick Barry's speaking fee and appearance cost, contact the agents at Athlete Speakers by calling us at 800-916-6008 or by Starting Your Booking Request Now.

Watch Rick Barry Speaking about his NBA Career: