Belmont’s Men’s Basketball Head Coach Rick Byrd was recognized at today’s Hoop Hour Luncheon with the presentation of a Resolution from Nashville’s Metropolitan Council in honor of his 700th win. Byrd is in his 29th season at Belmont and in January, he received his 700th career victory when the Belmont’s Men’s basketball team beat Austin Peay 89-83.
Since being at Belmont, Coach Byrd has led the men’s team to seven NCAA Division I Tournaments including the 2015 Tournament, scheduled to begin next week. Of his 700 wins, more than 600 have been at Belmont and Byrd is one of only 5 active NCAA coaches to have 500 wins at one school and one of only seven coaches with 700 career wins.
Metro’s Resolution highlights Coach Byrd accomplishments both on and off the court saying, “Coach Byrd is a man of true character and commitment, he exemplifies dedication and leadership, is respected for his tireless efforts to excel and is always guided by solid principles and high standards…”
Council Members Burkley Allen, District 18, and Erica Gilmore, District 19, were present to award Byrd with this honor.
Coach Byrd has been the recipient of many awards including his induction into the Belmont Hall of Fame in 1996, 2013 OVC Coach of the Year, Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame induction in 2013 and his membership in the NAIA Hall of Fame, among others.