CALDWELL, Idaho – The College of Idaho is proud to announce the renaming of its basketball arena to honor one of the greatest players in NBA history and a pivotal figure in civil rights progress, Elgin Baylor. The dedication ceremony will take place on February 21st at halftime of the men's 7:30pm basketball game, now officially located in the Elgin Baylor Arena, at the J.A. Albertson Activities Center. The public is invited to join us for this historic moment celebrating a legend whose roots trace back to Caldwell.
Elgin Baylor, an NBA Hall of Famer and trailblazer, attended The College of Idaho in 1954, a time of deep societal division. His presence at the College was groundbreaking—not only for his unparalleled athletic talent but also for the progress he symbolized in integrating college athletics. That year, Baylor and five other Black students joined the College's basketball team, marking a pivotal step in providing opportunities for players of all backgrounds.
As a young man from segregated Washington, D.C., Baylor found at The College of Idaho his first experiences of an integrated community. For the first time in his life, he attended integrated classes, lived in shared dormitories, and ate in the same dining halls as his white classmates. In his autobiography, Hang Time, Baylor recalled, "It's as if I have wandered into a private and exclusive members-only club, except that rather than feel intimidated and excluded the way I do in DC, I feel invited." His time in Caldwell proved to be the foundation for a monumental career.
Baylor's legacy extends beyond the court. As the first overall pick in the NBA Draft, he became the first Black player to hold that distinction. Known as the Lakers' first superstar, he redefined the game with his athleticism, creativity, and scoring prowess, paving the way for the future of professional basketball. Among his many achievements, he was the first NBA player to score 70 points in a game, held the record for the most points in an NBA Finals game for over 40 years, and became one of the first Black NBA coaches and general managers.
The ceremony will honor Baylor's extraordinary contributions both to the sport and to providing opportunities for all. The event will feature reflections on his life and legacy, a video tribute, and the official unveiling of the arena's new name.
Join us in celebrating the incredible story of Elgin Baylor and his ties to The College of Idaho, a community that embraced and supported him during a time of transformative change. Together, we honor his legacy and reaffirm our commitment to providing opportunities for all.
WHAT: Elgin Baylor Arena Dedication Ceremony
WHEN: February 21st, Halftime of the Men's Basketball 7:30pm game
WHERE: Elgin Baylor Arena, J.A. Albertson Activities Center, The College of Idaho
For more information about the event, please contact Sarah Fajer at the College of Idaho Athletic Communications office: sfajer@collegeofidaho.edu
