Clifford Barker
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| Position | Power forward |
| Height / weight | 1.88 m / 82 kg |
| Born | 15 Jan 1921 (77 years) |
| Nationality |  United States |
| Nickname | Cliff |
Cliff Barker was an American professional basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association for the Indianapolis Olympians and won a gold medal with the USA National Basketball team at the 1948 Summer Olympics in London.
He was a member of the University of Kentucky's "Fabulous Five," winning two NCAA championships in 1948 and 1949.
Player Profile
Clifford "Cliff" Barker was born on January 15, 1921, in Yorktown, Indiana, and passed away on March 17, 1998, in Satsuma, Florida.He stood 188 cm tall and his weight was last listed at 84 kg. A right-handed shooter, he played as a guard.
High School and College Career
He attended Yorktown High School in Yorktown, Indiana. He then played college basketball at the University of Kentucky from 1946 to 1949.During his collegiate career, he was recognized as an All-SEC (Second Team).
Professional Career
Barker was selected by the Washington Capitols in the inaugural NBA draft in 1949. His professional career lasted from 1949 to 1952.He played for the Indianapolis Olympians for three seasons, serving as both a player and coach.
Barker was part of the team that won a division championship in their first year but did not secure the league title.
Career Highlights
- 1948, 1949 - 2× NCAA Champion
- 1948 - Olympic Gold Medal (London)
Medal Record, Men's basketball, Representing the United States
- Gold - 1948 Olympic Games London
Clifford Barker FAQ
What was Cliff Barker's most significant achievement?
Winning the Olympic gold medal in 1948 while also being part of Kentucky's "Fabulous Five" that won multiple national championships.
How did Barker develop his unique playing style?
He developed his distinctive backward passes and ball-handling techniques while practicing with a volleyball during his 16 months as a POW in Germany.
When was Barker drafted into the NBA?
1949. He was selected in the 1949 NBA Draft by the then Washington Capitols.