Texas A&M Basketball: Tony Barone dies at 72

Former Texas A&M Basketball coach Tony Barone passed away at the age of 72 on Tuesday after battling cancer for several years.

The head coach during some of the toughest years in recent memory, former Texas A&M basketball coach Tony Barone died on Tuesday.

Barone had suffered from cancer for several years before passing away at the age of 72.

After firing Kermit Davis following the 1990-91 season, Barone was hired, kicking off an eight-year tenure at Texas A&M.

While the Aggies might not have been particularly successful during that time, going a rough 76-120, Barone was not given much to work with, between several NCAA sanctions and a growing need for improved facilities.

During his eight years at College Station, Barone’s Aggies never made the NCAA Tournament, made the NIT once, and went 7-20 in his final season.

The 7-20 season was enough for A&M, as Barone was fired following the season.

After his time at Texas A&M, Barone moved on to the NBA, working for the Memphis Grizzlies in several areas, including interim head coach after the Grizzlies were left without a head coach in December of 2006.

Although his time at Texas A&M wasn’t as illustrious others, Barone will always be remembered as a strong-willed coach that faced adversity head-on, as well as someone that was relatable to the players, and truly had a deep care for the program.

Barone’s main career success likely was his NBA production, but he left his mark on the college game as well, as Texas A&M built a new basketball arena shortly after Barone was fired. Barone had long fought for a new facility, and the lack of dated facilities was certainly a factor in the Aggies’ struggles, as was shown with their immediate improvements following the construction of the new arena.

Our hearts are with Barone’s friends and family during this difficult time. Rest in Piece, Tony Barone.