Lee Burklow
Inducted in 2008
Men's Basketball
As a Lion
Freed-Hardeman University athletics took a big step forward in the 1990's. In men's basketball, Lee Burklow played a key role in the progression of that program.
Burklow came to Freed-Hardeman in 1992 from Hohenwald, Tenn., where he was a standout at Lewis County High School. The 6-foot-6 forward made an immediate contribution on the floor, averaging nearly 10 points per game as a freshman, and went on to put his name in the Lion record books in several categories including career points scored with 1,570 (11th all-time) and career rebounds with 620 (14th all-time). He also ranks third all-time in both career free throws made and career free throws attempted. In his senior season, the Lions won 20 games for the first time in school history as Burklow averaged 14.7 points per game.
Lee was also known for his leadership on and off the floor. He was selected as team captain during his sophomore, junior, and senior seasons.
"Lee demonstrated leadership qualities that very few college students possess," said Mike McCutchen, who coached Burklow during his time at FHU. "He was respected by his teammates and coaches for his work ethic and his genuine concern for others. Although Lee was statistical leader in several areas, his greatest contributions cannot be measured with numbers. Lee Burklow is one of those rare individuals that has the ability to inspire others."
Burklow came to Freed-Hardeman in 1992 from Hohenwald, Tenn., where he was a standout at Lewis County High School. The 6-foot-6 forward made an immediate contribution on the floor, averaging nearly 10 points per game as a freshman, and went on to put his name in the Lion record books in several categories including career points scored with 1,570 (11th all-time) and career rebounds with 620 (14th all-time). He also ranks third all-time in both career free throws made and career free throws attempted. In his senior season, the Lions won 20 games for the first time in school history as Burklow averaged 14.7 points per game.
Lee was also known for his leadership on and off the floor. He was selected as team captain during his sophomore, junior, and senior seasons.
"Lee demonstrated leadership qualities that very few college students possess," said Mike McCutchen, who coached Burklow during his time at FHU. "He was respected by his teammates and coaches for his work ethic and his genuine concern for others. Although Lee was statistical leader in several areas, his greatest contributions cannot be measured with numbers. Lee Burklow is one of those rare individuals that has the ability to inspire others."
After Graduation
Since graduating in 1997, Burklow has remained an active supporter of Freed-Hardeman athletics. He is a member of the Sports Advisory Council and has been involved in several fundraising projects.