Arthur Bonner

Inducted in 1994

Men's Basketball

As a Lion

Arthur Bonner came to Freed-Hardeman College from Mary Holmes Junior College in 1977. At Mary Holmes, he had been named the team's best defensive player.

FHC Coach Hoyt Kirk had recruited the 6'8" post player. Bonner led not only Freed-Hardeman but also District 24 in shooting percentages. He still holds the school records for highest field goal percentage in a season (66.4 percent) and highest career field goal percentage (63.3 percent). He also holds the school's second-highest rebounding average since Freed-Hardeman became a four-year college.

Jim Swope, Union University's coach at the time, commented upon that aspect of Bonner's talent. "What's most impressive about Bonner is his jumping ability and shot selection. He's going to take the good shots," he said.

Kirk said, "What I remember about Arthur is that he was always a gentleman on the court."

Bonner was named to the Volunteer State Athletic Conference All-Conference Team and to the All-Tournament Team.

After Graduation

Today Bonner is the manager of a Fred's Discount Store in Murfreesboro, Tenn. He and his wife, the former Annie Dear, have two children, Arthur Darrell and Arquita DeShae. He is the secretary-treasurer of the Bradyville Road Church of Christ and he and Annie are vice presidents of their local Parent-Teacher Organization.