Former BC Basketball Star Andre Spencer Passes Away at 56

Andre Spencer playing for Northern Arizona. Image credit IPTC.
Andre Spencer playing for Northern Arizona. Image credit IPTC.

Bakersfield, CA – Bakersfield College Athletics is saddened to announce the passing of former Renegade basketball student athlete Andre Spencer, who died last week at the age of 56.

Listed at a playing height of 6'6", Spencer played at BC under head coach Ralph Krafve from 1982-1984. He is the only Renegade basketball player to go on and play in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

"Andre was someone who cared so much for the BC men's basketball program," said BC head of basketball operations Aaron Chávez. "His accomplishments are second to none. He may arguably be the best Renegade of all-time. My family and I are saddened by his passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family."

After BC, Andre spent two years at Northern Arizona University from 1984-1986 before playing in the now defunct Continental Basketball Association (CBA) for three seasons and then spent two season playing for Maccabi Rishon LeZion in the Israeli League. He would go on to play in the NBA where he was played on the Atlanta Hawks from 1992-93, the Golden State Warriors (1993) and the Sacramento Kings (1994). He would then play for another handful of CBA and European League teams before officially retiring in 2002. Ever since he has devoted himself to coaching young talent in the southern California area and giving back to the game.

"Andre was a great person who was all about helping athletes get into school through basketball," said former BC head basketball coach Rich Hughes. "His playing resume speaks for itself. Our prayers and condolences go out to his family."

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