Utah lawmakers honored one of the most decorated players in Utah men’s basketball history this week.
Longtime athletics director and four-time NCAA all-American Arnie Ferrin was honored with a state resolution in both the Utah Senate and House of Representatives at the 65th Utah Legislature on Feb. 14. Ferrin, who passed away at the age of 97 in December, 2022, was represented by his family members.
Ferrin was one of the most decorated players in Utah men’s basketball history, leading the team to a national championship in 1944, and later serving as the U’s athletics director from 1976 to 1985. Under his leadership, Utah won 10 team national championships and 15 conference championships.
Read a full tribute from Utah Athletics here.
“I think it’s really appropriate that we pay honor to those who have an impact, like Arnie’s had, on our lives,” said Senate Majority Leader Evan Vickers, the sponsor of the citation. “In my mind, Arnie rises to the level of having significant impact on sports and traditions at the University of Utah and state-wide.”
In the House, Republican Rep. Jeffrey D. Stenquist read the citation. “It’s an honor to recognize such a great Utahn and athlete for the University of Utah,” Stenquist said. Ferrin was “someone who really made his mark on the athletic program and the state.”
In recognition of his accomplishments, Ferrin’s Utah jersey #22 was permanently retired by the university and hangs in the Jon M. Huntsman Center on campus.
