Bill Battle III dies, leaving a legacy in college sports
- Bill Battle III, who played under coach Paul Bryant, and later coached Tennessee Volunteers, died at 82.
- He founded the Collegiate Licensing Company, which revolutionized college athletics marketing.
- His leadership contributed to Alabama's sports success, and he is remembered for his vision and integrity.
Bill Battle III, a significant figure in American college athletics, died at the age of 82. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, he played as a three-year starter for the University of Alabama's football team during the early 1960s, contributing to Paul 'Bear' Bryant's first national championship in 1961. He began his coaching career at the University of Oklahoma before joining the University of Tennessee as an assistant coach in 1966. In 1970, he became the youngest head coach in college football at the time, leading the Volunteers to a successful record of 59 wins, 22 losses, and 2 ties, including winning four of five bowl games during his tenure. Notably in 1972, he made history by naming Condredge Holloway as the first Black player to start at quarterback for a Southeastern Conference team. In addition to his coaching achievements, Battle was also a pioneer in college sports marketing, founding the Collegiate Licensing Company in 1981 and serving as its president and CEO until 2002. His company played a vital role in the commercialization of college athletics, and it was later acquired by IMG in 2007. After a successful stint at Tennessee, Battle returned to Alabama in 2013 as athletic director, a position he held for four years. Under his leadership, the Crimson Tide football team achieved notable success, winning three national championships. He also served as a special assistant to the university president after his time as AD. His contributions were recognized through various awards, including a lifetime achievement award from the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and the 2005 Paul W. Bryant Alumni Athlete Award. Colleagues and former players remembered his character, integrity, and vision, with notable figures like Alabama coach Nick Saban praising his role in shaping the university's athletic success. Greg Byrne, the current athletic director, described Battle as a visionary who made significant contributions to college athletics. Bill Battle III's legacy as a leader, coach, and innovator will endure in college sports for years to come.