C.M. Newton and Alabama Basketball

Newton helped re-establish the Crimson Tide basketball program

Image courtesy of Jimmy Bank

C.M. Newton was hired as the Alabama basketball coach and his first team in 1968-69 went on to a 4-20 season (1-17 in the conference).

Newton turned things around quickly.  His fourth team went 18-8 and his fifth team was 22-8.  The next three years he either won or tied for the conference championship.

Newton posted a 211-123 record in his 12 years as the leader of the Crimson Tide program. 

He had the Tide in the post season in six of those years.

 (photo by Jimmy Bank)

In addition to being an outstanding coach, C.M. Newton was known to be one of the nicest men at the U of A. A Birmingham News sportswriter wrote "Sometimes the sheer decency of the fellow startles you."

C.M. Newton speaking at his resignation press conference with Assoc. Athletic Dir. Sam Bailey and his successor, Wimp Sanderson. (photo by Jimmy Bank)

Courtesy Jimmy Bank