Jacksonville State University Athletics

Barto Hughes, the first athlete inducted in the Gamecock Athletic Hall of Fame, was without question Jacksonville State University’s finest all-around athlete prior to World War II. An all-star center and a giant man, Hughes led the Eagle Owls to 16-1, 15-2, 16-1, and 17-3 marks in basketball during his four years with the Eagle Owls. He led the team in scoring and rebounding. On the football field, Hughes was voted Captain in 1931 and 1932. The Eagle Owls almost upset Miami in 1932, losing 14-13. Hughes was also an outstanding baseball player for Coach J.W. Stephenson. In addition to being named captain twice in football, Hughes was selected permanent captain four times in basketball. Following graduation at JSU, Hughes compiled an outstanding coaching record in Birmingham before taking an administrative post.