NBA Veteran and Ohio Hall of Famer Barry Clemens Dies

The former professional basketball player passes away at age 83 following an 11-year career in the league.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Basketball

Expressive sports illustration of a basketball player performing a layup in a stadium, captured in a gestural, painterly style. — Barry Clemens, an 11-year NBA veteran and Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame inductee who played for five different franchises, has died at 83. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Barry Clemens, a longtime NBA player who was inducted into the Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame in 2009, has died at age 83. The 6-foot-6 forward spent 11 seasons in the league playing for several franchises across the country.

Why it matters

Clemens leaves behind a significant legacy in the sport, defined by his resilience and longevity as a role player across five different NBA organizations. His career contributions remain a point of pride for the Ohio basketball community.

Clemens recorded 5,316 career points and 2,526 rebounds throughout his 790-game tenure in the NBA. He maintained an average of 6.7 points per game over his 11-year professional career.

The players

Barry Clemens

He was a professional basketball player who competed in the NBA for 11 seasons.

Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame

This institution recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport of basketball in the state of Ohio.

The details

Drafted 19th overall in 1965, Clemens played for the New York Knicks, Chicago Bulls, Seattle SuperSonics, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Portland Trail Blazers. His professional journey took him to various major markets before he was ultimately honored by the Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame.

Barry Clemens was drafted by the New York Knicks in 1965.
Clemens enjoyed an 11-year professional career spanning from 1966 to 1976.
The Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame inducted Clemens in 2009.
Barry Clemens died on October 27, 2026.

Season Trajectory

The recognition by the Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame highlights the lasting legacy of players who transition from the professional stage back to their home state. Clemens' induction into this institution marks him as one of the state's most notable basketball contributors.

The passing of a veteran player like Clemens underscores the history of the franchises he represented, including the Cleveland Cavaliers. Fans and historians of the game can track his career statistics as part of the broader legacy of the 1960s and 1970s NBA era.

The takeaway

Clemens remains a prime example of the durability required for a long career in professional basketball. His journey from being a 19th overall draft pick to a state hall-of-famer serves as an inspiration for athletes across Ohio.