Northwest Missouri State University head men's basketball coach Ben McCollum is set to be inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame alongside various sports legends on May 19 in Kansas City, where former Bearcat pitcher Anthony Caenepeel will also be honored. The enshrinement features notable sports figures like Eric Hosmer of the Kansas City Royals and Betty Lennox of Fort Osage High School and the WNBA.

The Big Picture

The induction into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame highlights the achievements of prominent sports personalities across different disciplines, showcasing the rich sports culture in Missouri.

By the Numbers
  • Ben McCollum has led his teams to four national championships and holds an impressive record of 394-91 since 2009.
  • Less than 100 individuals in Missouri history have earned the Diamond 9 Award, an accolade honoring significant contributions in baseball and softball.
State of Play
  • The Missouri Sports Hall of Fame relies on private donations and fundraising events to sustain its operations, showcasing the community's support for sports history preservation.
  • The inclusion of individuals like Eric Hosmer and Betty Lennox acknowledges their impactful sports careers and contributions to the local sports landscape.
Bottom Line

The upcoming induction of Ben McCollum and other sports figures into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame highlights the state's diverse sporting legacy and recognizes the outstanding achievements of these individuals, underscoring the enduring impact of sports culture in Missouri.