Before the nation knew his name, before NBA scouts circled his games, and before he etched his place in history as the first player from an HBCU to lead the nation in scoring, I knew who Tony Murphy Sr. was. He was already a legend in my eyes, long before the spotlight found him.
I first learned about Tony as a teammate of my oldest brother on Eastside High School’s (now Paterson Eastside) undefeated freshman team. Everyone talked about him as if he were playing a different game. “He’s a man among boys,” they’d say—and they weren’t exaggerating.
Even as a freshman, Tony had a physical presence and poise that separated him from everyone else. Year after year, I watched in awe as he grew taller, stronger, sharper, and more dominant. His size, strength, and God-given ability to shoot and score the basketball were mesmerizing. But what I didn’t know at the time was that Murphy hadn’t even come close to reaching his full potential.
During his college years at Southern University, whenever he returned to Paterson for the summer, as a kid I would study him. Every move. Every shot. Every expression. He carried intensity—his trademark intimidating glare and the demeanor of an assassin. On the court, he took no prisoners. He was feared. Respected. Revered. That presence wasn’t just for show—it was who he was.
During his junior year in college, 1978-1979, he put the basketball world on notice. But it was his senior season that cemented his legend. He didn’t just lead his team; he led the entire nation in scoring, averaging an astounding 32.1 points per game. He did it on his terms, carrying the pride of Paterson, NJ, and the legacy of HBCUs on his back.
The phrase “Face the Nation,” a nod to his dominance and the attention he brought to HBCUs, echoed across the college basketball landscape that season—and for good reason. He was rewriting history in real time.
Murphy wasn’t just a scorer. He was a force. He was a symbol of what was possible for kids like me—kids from the city with big dreams and even bigger obstacles. His journey was a beacon of hope, inspiring countless others to believe in their potential.
So, having the chance to sit down with this college basketball legend and top NBA draft pick to reflect on his remarkable journey and learn what he’s doing now was truly an honor. Even after his playing days, Murphy continues to inspire and make a difference in the lives of young athletes through his coaching and mentorship.
Jacobs: Where were you born and raised?
Murphy: I was born and raised in Paterson, New Jersey, a city that shaped my identity, fueled my determination, and provided the cultural and competitive foundation that would guide my path through basketball and life.
Jacobs: Talk about some of your biggest influences growing up in Paterson, NJ.
Murphy: The most powerful influence in my life was undoubtedly my mother. She was the heart and soul of our household, holding everything together while my father worked long hours to provide for our family. Her strength, discipline, and unwavering love guided me. She was my compass, my protector, and my greatest believer. Her influence is a testament to the power of a mother’s love and the Impact it can have on a child’s life. While my father led by example through hard work and sacrifice, it was my mother who gave me the drive and values that remain with me to this day.
Jacobs: When did the interest in basketball occur?
Murphy: My passion for basketball began around the 5th or 6th grade. We had a basketball hoop installed in our backyard, and I still remember the first time I saw the ball go through the net. That simple moment ignited something inside of me. I was hooked! From that day forward, the basketball courts became my sanctuary, where I spent countless hours, dreaming big and grinding hard.
Jacobs: You played at Eastside High School, now known as Paterson Eastside High, where you earned County Player of the Year and All-State honors under legendary coach Henry Baker Sr. What was that experience like for you, and how did playing under Coach Baker prepare you for the challenges of college basketball?
Murphy: I started my journey in Paterson’s public schools, attending School 10 and then Martin Luther King Jr. High before enrolling at Eastside. Growing up, I watched Eastside legends like Jerry Wilder and Bosco Bell. Watching them gave me an early blueprint for success. At Eastside, I had the privilege of playing under Coach Henry Baker Sr., one of the most impactful figures in my life. He didn’t just coach basketball—he taught us how to be young men. His mentorship and guidance were instrumental in shaping my character, discipline, and the importance of conducting ourselves with integrity. My freshman coach, Dominic Pelosi, also played a huge role in my development. Coach Baker’s influence was a testament to the power of a good mentor in a young person’s life.
Jacobs: You chose to attend and play at Southern University, an HBCU in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, competing in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). What led to your decision to choose Southern, and were there other schools actively recruiting you at the time?
Murphy: After my last high school game, Frank Bannister—a vice principal at Eastside and a significant figure in the Bayou Classic—asked if I knew about HBCUs. That conversation changed everything. He contacted Southern University Coach Carl Stewart, who had coached under the legendary coach at Gambling State Eddie Robinson, and came to visit me the very next day! I had other offers, including from the University of New Orleans, Villanova, and St. Peter’s, and I had built a reputation at the prestigious Five-Star Camp, and I was the first basketball player from Paterson, NJ to attend this prestigious camp. However, after visiting Southern and spending three days on campus, I knew it was where I belonged. I signed my commitment as soon as I returned to Paterson.
Jacobs: Your Impact at Southern University was immediate. Can you talk about your transition to the college game, and what were some of the biggest adjustments and challenges you faced early on?
Murphy: I was well prepared thanks to my family and my experiences at the Five-Star Camp. The biggest adjustment was learning more about the game of basketball and strategies—getting comfortable with the playbook, team systems, and terminology. But physically, I was ready. My speed, size, strength, and scoring ability allowed me to transition quickly. I knew I could compete with anyone right away.
Jacobs: During your junior season in 1978–1979, you averaged 24 points per game and emerged as one of the nation’s top scorers, putting the basketball world on notice. Heading into your senior year, what goals or mindset did you carry with you, both individually and for your team?
Murphy: That junior season was a turning point—it was my first year as a starter after serving as the sixth man during my first two years. I was ready. I trained relentlessly that offseason—early-morning workouts, drills, and a commitment to be in the best shape possible. I was focused on maximizing my opportunity. I had the green light, and I didn’t take it for granted. My mindset was simple: outwork everyone, elevate my game, and lead my team by example.
Jacobs: Your senior season in 1979–1980 was truly remarkable—you led the nation in scoring, averaging 32.1 points per game and finishing with 932 total points. You became not only the focal point of opposing defenses but also caught the attention of NBA scouts. Reflect on that magical season, what made it so special for you?
Murphy: It was the most challenging—and the most rewarding—season of my life. Every gym we entered, I had a target on my back. Leading the nation in scoring came with attention on and off the court. Interviews off the court, and double-teamed on the court, I was under constant pressure. But I embraced it. That season matured me, not just as a player but as a person. It taught me how to stay focused under the spotlight and how to carry the responsibility of being a leader. Looking back, it was a fun, exciting, and unforgettable experience.
Jacobs: After your senior season, during which you led the nation in scoring, what was the NBA Draft process like for you? Did you know where you might be selected or which teams were showing the most interest?
Murphy: After my senior season, I attended several pre-draft camps with teams like the New York Knicks, Indiana Pacers, and Nets. I knew I was projected to go somewhere in the second or third round. Interestingly, I never worked out for the Kansas City Kings (now Sacramento Kings), who ultimately selected me. They didn’t have a second-round pick and used their first pick in the third round—62nd overall—to draft me in 1980. It was an honor, especially since my Eastside High teammate Rory Sparrow was selected in the fourth round in the same draft. It was a proud moment for Paterson, NJ and for Southern University—I was the first HBCU player to lead the nation in scoring.
Jacobs: After being selected in the third round of the 1980 NBA Draft by the Kansas City Kings (Now Sacramento Kings). Can you take us back to that moment—where were you when you received the news, and what emotions did you experience upon being drafted?
Murphy: I was at home, sitting by the phone. Everyone else was at work. When the call came, I felt an overwhelming sense of joy and readiness. I had worked my whole life for that moment. The feeling was indescribable validation of every hour spent in the gym, every sacrifice. My family was proud, Paterson was proud, and Baton Rouge, where I played at Southern University, was proud. What made it even more special was sharing that draft class with my friend and former high school teammate, Rory Sparrow.
Jacobs: Following the conclusion of your playing career, you co-founded an organization called Positive Impact. Can you share the inspiration behind launching the organization and discuss the meaningful ways it has served and impacted the community?
Murphy: Positive Impact began as a vision shared by Joe Grier, Joe Butler, Andre Bease, and me. Joe Grier was the lead. Rory Sparrow joined us after his NBA playing career had ended. Joe ran the boxing program, while we focused on youth basketball for boys and girls, and baseball ages 7-14. Our philosophy was rooted in the teachings of Coach Baker and Coach Pelosi, my high school coaches—discipline, teamwork, and education. We created safe spaces and structured programs for young people in our community. Over the years, 70–80 kids have come through our programs and gone on to college, playing at the Division I, II, and III levels in various sports. Today, many individuals are thriving as coaches in high school, the NBA, the WNBA, and various other fields, including education, the culinary arts, and professional services. That’s the legacy we’re most proud of.
Jacobs: Talk about what you’re currently doing and what is in your future.
Murphy: I’m still very much involved in my community, coaching in the Paterson Recreation Basketball League and mentoring youth. After a 33-year career with UPS, I retired—but not from giving back. “Before we wrap up, I want to take a moment to thank a few incredible individuals from Positive Impact who have made a lasting difference in my life and in our work. Without their support, this journey would’ve been much more difficult. First and foremost, my wife, Kim Murphy—we’ve been together for over 40 years. She’s not only my life partner but one of my best friends. Her strength, patience, and love have carried me through.
I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Tracy Bease, Terry Reed, Jackie Sparrow, Kim Williamson, Rory Sparrow, Larry Cox, and Aundrey Bease. Your dedication, loyalty, and support over the years have meant more than words can express.”
About the Author
Darryl Jacobs is a nationally recognized college basketball analyst with ESPN and CBS Sports Networks, and a veteran sports executive. He has over two decades of experience in higher education, corporate leadership, and nonprofit management. A former college head basketball coach and athletic administrator, Darryl has worked with professional athletes and served on numerous national boards in education, athletics, and community development.