Courtesy of Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame
NASHVILLE – Brandon Rowland, a Jackson native, a graduate of UT Martin, and a former wheelchair basketball champion, is a 2021 Inductee of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame. Rowland was made aware of his inclusion Tuesday by the Chairman of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, Phillip Fulmer.
Brandon is a double-amputee, having both legs removed below the knee when he was 6 years old due to a condition called disseminated intravascular coagulation. Rowland didn’t allow his amputation to stand in the way of his athletic endeavors, playing Babe Ruth baseball, tennis, basketball and soccer.
His senior year of high school, Rowland was invited to join the Jackson Generals, a wheelchair basketball team. While playing for the Generals, Rowland led the team to two National Wheelchair Basketball Association titles, winning tournament MVP in 2002, and averaging a triple-double for the season.
“Brandon’s story is one of perseverance and dedication in the face of adversity, and one that an important reminder of the value of sports to its participants,” said Brad Willis, Executive Director of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame. “Brandon’s inclusion in the 2021 Class of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame is a testament to his competitive nature, and one that spotlights an athlete overcoming the biggest of obstacles.”
Rowland joins MTSU legend Mike Caldwell as the first two announced inductees into the 2021 Class of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame. The full 2021 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Induction Class will be released over the coming weeks.
Established in 1966, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame honors figures from every sport including basketball, baseball, football, golf, soccer and track & field, along with coaches, teams, sports writers and others who made an impact. The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development oversees all operations along with the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Board of Directors.
For more information, visit www.tshf.net.
About the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame
Established in 1966, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame enshrines and honors athletes, teams, coaches, sports writers and sports administrators who have made an impact on the history of Tennessee sports. The Hall serves as a platform to connect athletes, coaches, sports fans, and supporters by acknowledging life achievements implemented through sports. The Hall celebrates athletes of all forms, from all across the state. Additionally, Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame aspires to educate youth about the importance of healthy habits and the positive impact they have on lifestyle choices. The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame is located at 501 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Tickets are $3 for adults and $2 for children and can be purchased at the Visitor Center in Bridgestone Arena, right outside of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame. Group rates are available for 10 or more. For more information, visit www.tshf.net.