lennymoonsports

By Lenny Moon

60 yr plus National Football League veteran John Wooten sat down with Lenny Moon to discuss a possible solution for the lack of Historical Black College and University(HBCU) “draft eligible players” being consistently overlooked by NFL teams. Wooten is cofounder of the Fritz Pollard Alliance (a diversity advocacy organization that’s partnering with the NFL), who also has served as a NFL Scout, the front office in addition of blocking for three Pro Football Hall of Fame running backs as an All Pro guard with the Cleveland Browns. Namely the immortal Jim Brown, Leroy Kelley and Bobby Mitchell benefitted from the services of the former Colorado University All American. The retired “titan” of an NFL figure has also been inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame from his performance at Colorado University (1959 graduate; became the second Black varsity player in the history of the Boulder, Co institution following Frank Clarke).

By Lenny Moon

This may not be the textbook definition of what constitutes the qualities of a candidate for Pro Football Hall of Fame consideration, but merely through the lens of a journalist that’s covered the game since the 80s and been a fan since pre-school. Here goes; if a player of pro football was an impact player during his active era or as a contributor ascended the game to new heights as a result of said individual’s “contributions”. Or maybe perhaps an individual that “contributed” to the betterment of the NFL in a multitude of capacities (detailed below). Enter the dignified gentleman that’s worn several hats during his 60-plus years of service to the NFL by the name of John Wooten.

Following an All-American career at the University of Colorado, Wooten was drafted in 1959 by the Cleveland Browns, where he performed until 1967 and finished with Washington in 1968 as an active National Football League player. And by the way, the all-pro offensive lineman blocked for three Pro Football Hall of Fame running backs in Cleveland (Jim Brown, Bobby Mitchell and Leroy Kelly). Other involvements with the NFL include Director of Pro Scouting with Dallas (1975-91) and the creation of Player Programs/ Player Development programs for the NFL in 1991. It was his work with Dallas where he assisted greatly in consummating the famous “Herchel Walker Trade” that postured the Cowboys to three Super Bowl titles during the 90s. Additionally, the Riverview, Tx native served as VP/ Player Personnel for Philadelphia in 1992 and also Assistant Director, Pro/ College Scouting for Baltimore until his retirement in 1998. He would go on to serve as Co-Founder/ first Chairman of the Fritz Pollard Alliance in 2003. It was Wooten who brought all parties together (over 100 coaches, scouts and front office personnel of color) following the findings from a study spearheaded by famed attorneys Johnnie Cochran and Cyrus Mehri at the NFL combine that same year. For consideration of allotted space, this is only a small capsule of the massive contributions of John Wooten. Below, we provided some clips of several gentlemen that know Mr Wooten better than most including NFL Commissioner Roger Goddell, Co-Founder of the Black College Football Hall of Fame and retired NFL executive James “Shack” Harris, Pro Football Hall of Fame member Harry Carson who also served as Executive Director of the Fritz Pollard Alliance. Also, former teammate and business partner, Pro Football Hall of Fame running back Jim Brown (passed on May 18, 2023) SEE VIDEOS BELOW

By Lenny Moon

As we embark on the upcoming 2026 version of the NBA Finals, reflections of the Space City’s only two NBA titles (back to back in 1994 and 1995) come rushing back to the surface. Particularly since the New York Knicks return following a 26 year hiatus from the championship series. The Rockets actually defeated the Knicks for their first Finals title in 1994 and defended their crown the following season over the Shaquille O’Neal led Orlando Magic in 1995. We had the good fortune of covering the Houston based NBA franchise during most of the Hakeem Olajuwon era including the title runs as well as the seasons that led to the formulation of those championship compilations.

The coach that led Houston to the back to back NBA titles was Rockets legend Rudy Tomjanovich, former star forward who played his entire 12 year career with the franchise and was a 5x NBA All Star. The Michigan Wolverines product was retained by the organization upon his retirement and was an assistant to Don Chaney when his opportunity to become head man intersected his path. The irony was that Chaney had earned NBA Coach of the Year in 1992 while providing the team with its most regular season wins (52) in the teams annals, the season prior to being given his pink slip. The announcement was dropped around midseason and obviously caught most by surprise, including “Rudy T”. We caught up with the then newly appointed Rockets head coach the day following the press conference. (See video below)

One of the key cogs in both of the Houston Rockets back to back NBA titles was point guard Kenny “Jet” Smith. The former North Carolina All American was an exceptional facilitator who could also stretch the defense with his outside shooting capability. With the game’s premier low post talent in Olajuwon, Smith was brought in during the Chaney era in 1990 and provided the much needed veteran ball handler as the team continued to develop. Since his playing days, Smith has evolved into one of the NBA top analyst currently airing on ESPN following an extended stint with TNT Sports. We caught up with the “Jet” during one of his HTown stops as he revisited what made the magic work. (See video below)

By Lenny Moon

As of press time, the top five “Father/ Son” scoring leaders are represented below. Of the five duos, the only pair whose total is completed is the Bryants (Joe “Jellybean’ and Kobe). The other four tandems continue to add to their respective ledgers. Without further adeu, we’ll begin with the current leaders and work our way through the top five “Father and Sons All Time Scoring Leaders”.

(#3) As with the James duo sitting on top of this category, one of the two with this next pair became one of the greatest the game has ever witnessed. The son in this instance is none other than the late Kobe Bean Bryant (1978>2020). His father was Joe “Jellybean” Bryant (1954>2024) who was an athletic 6 foot 10 swing player drafted in the 1st round by Golden State out of LaSalle in 1975. One of his three stops in the NBA was the Houston Rockets where he enjoyed one of his better seasons in the league before traveling overseas for the next 17 years abroad. Jellybean scored 5,252 points in his NBA career. His son Kobe “Bean” Bryant was drafted straight out of high school, enjoyed a 20 year NBA career (all with the Lakers) and was a large part of Five NBA Championships where he was a 2x NBA Finals MVP. Also included on his ledger is an 18x NBA All Star, 9x NBA 1st Team All Defense and the NBA 75th Anniversary Team among many, many other career achievements. Kobe scored 33,643 points when he called it a career in 2016. Bryant was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2020.

(#5) Known for his fancy crossover ball handling, this Chicago native excelled at Texas at El Paso University prior to being drafted in the 1st round of the 1989 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors. The five time NBA All Star amassed 15,383 points with the Miami, Dallas, Denver and Indiana in addition to his years with the Warriors. Being the son of a former NBA star must be difficult under ordinary circumstances. But to come into the league with the exact same name as his junior must fall into the 2.0 category. Timothy Duane Hardaway Jr has met this challenge head on. Although drafted in the 1st round of the 2013 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks, Tim Hardaway Jr bounced around the league his first few years as a pro before settling in with the Atlanta Hawks first and later the Dallas Mavericks. It was with the Mavs where he established himself as a solid NBA starter on ends of the court. Now in his 12th NBA campaign, Tim Jr has scored 12, 191 points (and counting) currently with the Denver Nuggets.

##########################################################################

Conversely, both Smith and Coach K were very nearly fired from their ACC institutions within their first five year stint, but the programs that they were leading opted to stick with their guy until they both gained traction. Dean Smith posted a sub .500 record in 1962 and broke even another in 1964. Coach K experienced back to back sub .500 seasons in 1982 and 1983 but still managed to hang on until he figured it out. Cumulatively, the three coaches five year ledger is listed below:

By Lenny Moon

The Black College Football Hall of Fame (BCFHOF) announced its Class of 2026. The six-member class was selected from a list of 28 finalists previously determined by the BCFHOF Selection Committee.

The Black College Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026 includes:

• Jimmy Smith (Jackson State)
• Eddie Robinson, Jr. (Alabama State)
• Nick Collins (Bethune-Cookman)
• Tyrone Poole (Fort Valley State)
• Coach Rudy Hubbard (Florida A&M)
• Steve Wyche (Howard)

“What we have with the Class of 2026 is an incredible showcase of excellence, leadership, and impact that continues to come from Historically Black Colleges and Universities,” said Black College Football Hall of Fame Co-Founder and 2011 Inductee Doug Williams. “When the Black College Hall of Fame was established, its purpose was to elevate and recognize the past, present, and future of Black College Football. This class exemplifies that mission.”

Votes were tallied from the nine-member Selection Committee, comprised of prominent journalists, commentators, and historians, along with former NFL general managers and executives, and members of the BCFHOF, to determine the Class of 2026.

The Class of 2026 will be officially honored at the 17th Annual Black College Football Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, presented by the Atlanta Falcons, on June 6, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia.

Jimmy Smith

Jacksonville Jaguars All-Time Leading Receiver — Smith became one of the cornerstone offensive players for the Jacksonville Jaguars from 1995 to 2005, leading the team in receiving each season over that span and setting franchise records for receptions and receiving yards.

Pro Bowl and League Honors — A five-time Pro Bowl selection (1997–2001) and two-time Second-Team All-Pro, he also led the NFL in receptions in 1999 and was inducted into the Pride of the Jaguars, the franchise’s ring of honor.

Impressive Career Statistics — Over his 11-year career, Smith totaled 862 receptions for 12,287 yards and 67 touchdowns, ranking among the top receivers in league history at the time of his retirement.

Resilient and Impactful Performer — After early setbacks with injuries and limited opportunities, he emerged as one of the most productive receivers of his era, including a historic 15-reception, 291-yard, 3-touchdown performance against the Baltimore Ravens in 2000.

Collegiate Success at Jackson State — Before his NFL career, Smith was a two year starter (junior and senior campaigns) at wide receiver for Jackson State University, where he developed into a top prospect. Smith snared 83 receptions for 1,678 yds and 12 TDs his final two seasons as a JSU Tiger good for just over 20 yds per catch.

Eddie Robinson Jr.

Head Football Coach at Alabama State University — Named the 30th head coach on November 26, 2021, entering his fourth season leading the Hornets while helping restore winning culture and strong fan engagement.

Alabama State Alumnus and Standout Linebacker — A New Orleans native, Robinson accepted an academic scholarship to ASU and walked on to the Hornets football team, earned a chemistry degree in 1994, lettered all four seasons, and was a two-time All-SWAC Defensive Player of the Year and Sheridan All-American. Academically, ERob earned the status of Academic All Conference and recognized as the “Toyota Leadership Award” recipient in 1990.

SWAC Hall of Fame Inductee — Became the youngest inductee in Southwestern Athletic Conference Hall of Fame history at age 28 and was later recognized as a MEAC/SWAC Challenge Legend.

11-Year NFL Veteran — Selected 50th overall in the 1992 NFL Draft by the Houston Oilers, he played for Houston, Jacksonville, Tennessee, and Buffalo, including an appearance in Super Bowl XXXIV with the Titans. College Football.

Analyst and Broadcaster — Spent nearly a decade as a college football analyst for Fox Sports South, ESPNU, and ESPN3, and co-hosted the weekly television show INSIDE SWAC.

Leader, Mentor, and Community Advocate — Actively supports youth development and HBCU athletics through football camps, community outreach, and service as an NFL Ambassador for USA Football.

Nick Collins

Seven-Year NFL Career with the Green Bay Packers — Selected 51st overall in the 2005 NFL Draft, he became a cornerstone of the Packers’ defense and one of the NFL’s premier safeties.

Super Bowl XLV Champion — Played a pivotal role in Green Bay’s championship run, highlighted by a memorable interception returned for a touchdown in the Super Bowl.

Three-Time Pro Bowl and All-Pro Performer — Earned three Pro Bowl selections and three Second-Team All-Pro honors, consistently ranking among the league’s elite defensive backs.

Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame Inductee — Inducted in 2016, cementing his legacy as one of the most impactful defensive players in franchise history.

Bethune-Cookman Alumnus and Defensive Standout — A native of Rock Hill, South Carolina, he began his collegiate career at linebacker at Bethune Cookman and later converted to free safety. He quickly adjusted to the secondary by leading the MEAC in interceptions and earning All Conference in 2003. As a senior, Collins continued to evolve by earning 1st Team All MEAC along with 3rd Team AP All American and later inducted into the Bethune-Cookman Athletics Hall of Fame.

Bethune-Cookman Cornerbacks Coach and Mentor — Returned to his alma mater to help develop defensive backs, bringing championship experience and professional insight to the Wildcats’ coaching staff.

Tyrone Poole

13-Year NFL Veteran Cornerback — Drafted 22nd overall in the first round of the 1995 NFL Draft, Poole enjoyed a long professional career with the Panthers, Colts, Broncos, Patriots, Raiders, and Titans, totaling 486 tackles and 18 interceptions.

Two-Time Super Bowl Champion — A key contributor in New England, Poole earned back-to-back Super Bowl rings with the Patriots in Super Bowl XXXVIII and XXXIX.

Fort Valley State All-American and Trailblazer — At Fort Valley State University, he was a four-year starter and became the first player in school history to be selected in the first round of the NFL Draft, also starring in track and field, setting the school record for the 200 meter dash and finished second in the NCAA National Finals in 1995.

Hall of Fame & Honors — Poole’s legacy includes inductions into the Division II Football Hall of Fame and SIAC Hall of Fame, and recognition in the Fort Valley State Black College Alumni Hall of Fame for his excellence on and off the field.

In 2011, Poole authored a book entitled “Ultimate Success in the Game of Life” speaking to his challenge of growing up in poverty, quitting football his senior year in high school and being part of two Super Bowl teams with New England. Additionally, the LaGrange, Ga native became an entrepreneur, community advocate, inventor and Community Advocate — Beyond football, he’s a published author, and founder of the Tyrone Poole 38 Foundation, focusing on fitness, education, and humanitarian outreach.

Coach Rudy Hubbard

Legendary Florida A&M Head Football Coach — Served as head coach from 1974–1985, compiling an 83–48–3 record, ranking among the winningest coaches in school history.

National and Black College Football Champion — Led the Rattlers to the inaugural NCAA Division I‑AA Football Championship in 1978 and back‑to‑back Black College National Championships in 1977 and 1978. But harkening to the 1978 college football campaign, Hubbard and his Florida A&M Rattlers became the first ever Historical Black College and University program to win the NCAA Division 1AA Football Championship.

Orange Blossom Classic Success — Guided Florida A&M to five consecutive Orange Blossom Classic victories (1974–1978), solidifying the Rattlers’ dominance in HBCU football.

College Football Hall of Fame Inductee — Enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame as a coach (Class of 2021), honoring his leadership, championship pedigree, and lasting impact on the game.

Ohio State Running Back and Historic Assistant Coach — Lettered at Ohio State from 1965–1967 and became the first African-American assistant coach on Woody Hayes’ staff, contributing to multiple championship teams.

High School Head Coach and Community Leader — Returned to coaching later at James S. Rickards High School in Tallahassee, continuing his dedication to mentoring young athletes before retirement.

Steve Wyche

HBCU Advocate & Champion of Black College Football — A 1989 Howard University journalism graduate, Wyche consistently elevates the visibility of Historically Black Colleges and Universities through national coverage, including HBCU GO broadcasts and HBCU Legacy Bowl analysis, spotlighting the rich culture and talent pipeline of HBCU athletics.

Chief National Reporter & Senior NFL Media Analyst — Veteran journalist for NFL Network and NFL.com since 2008, delivering insider reporting, league analysis, and moderating key panel discussions across NFL programming.

Broadcast Presence & Studio Contributor — Regular contributor to studio shows, co‑host of Game Day Preview, and frequent on‑site reporter for marquee league events including playoff games and the Super Bowl.

Distinguished Sports Journalism Career — Built an expansive reporting résumé with major outlets including the Miami Herald (covering NFL, NBA, and collegiate teams), The Washington Post (NBA/Wizards), ESPN/ESPN2, and as beat writer for the Atlanta Falcons before joining NFL Media.

Howard University Alumnus & Early Reporting Roots — Earned a B.A. in Journalism from Howard University, where he began developing his reporting skills; first professional roles included covering high school and small college sports for the Richmond Times‑Dispatch.

By Lenny Moon

The year was 1989 when Arthur (Art) Lee Shell Jr became the first Black head football coach in the National Football League during the modern era. Fritz Pollard was the first Black to earn the distinction of becoming the first back in 1921 as player/coach for the Akron Pros. A native of Charleston, SC, Shell has always reigned supreme as an athlete, having earned all state status in both football and basketball. He was inducted into the South Carolina Football Hall of Fame in 2015.

We caught up with the historical NFL figure during his stint as the head coach of the Los Angeles Raiders and extracted some excerpts depicted in the video below.

Shell attended Maryland Eastern Shore University (1964 thru 1967) where he was a three time All Conference offensive tackle, an All American his senior campaign before being drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the 3rd round of the 1968 NFL Draft. Beginning with his third season in Oakland, the durable offensive lineman played in 156 consecutive before being injured during the 1979 preseason. Once recovered, Art played in an additional 51 straight games. Lining up wearing his black and silver uniform, Art accrued 8 Pro Bowl appearances, 3 Super Bowl championships (XI, XV and XVIII) and earning a slot on the NFL 1970s All Decade Team. When his impressive 15 year NFL career came to an end (all with the Raiders), the SC native would also tack on membership of the NFL 100th Anniversary All Time Team.

The year of 1989 was a banner year for the lifetime Raider in that this was the year that Canton, OH came calling, indicative of his immortality as a player being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. That same year, Raiders owner Al Davis promoted his then offensive line coach to the head coaching position thus becoming the first Black to be selected as the head coach in the modern National Football League. Shell was named the NFL Coach of the Year in 1990 leading the Raiders to an AFC West title and advancing to the AFC Championship Game. Needless to say, Art Shell Jr is a historical figure in the history of the NFL. He also served as Sr VP for Football Operations and Development for the NFL during his post coaching career. Shell is a Trustee of the Black College Football Hall of Fame and was inducted into said HOF in 2011, complimenting his College Football Hall of Fame (2013) and Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) in 2006 inductions.