William "Bill" Ricks – Basketball, Tennis, Baseball | 1972-1974
William “Bill” Ricks’ connection to Hinds Community College began long before he enrolled as a student. The son of legendary Hinds basketball coach Troy Ricks, Bill grew up on the Raymond campus before becoming a standout student-athlete from 1972 to 1974. Excelling in both basketball and tennis, he earned All-State Honorable Mention honors in basketball during the 1973-74 season while helping the Hinds men’s tennis team compile undefeated seasons and capture the 1973 state championship. Alongside doubles partner Jeff Strong, Ricks held the No. 1 doubles ranking and played a key role in the Eagles’ championship success.
Beyond athletics, Ricks embraced campus life in every aspect. He was selected as a Freshman Class Favorite, served as an escort for the 1972 Homecoming Court, sang in the Hinds Choir under Leslie Reeves and even helped construct the college’s baseball field during Coach Danny Neely’s first season. Following Hinds, he earned scholarships to play both basketball and baseball at Whitworth College before completing his degree at Mississippi College now Mississippi Christian University in Clinton.
Ricks went on to dedicate almost five decades to education and coaching in the Greene County School District. As head boys’ basketball coach for 21 years, he won 63 percent of his games, was named District 8 Coach of the Year in 2000 and coached in the Mississippi North/South All-Star Game. He also served as athletic director for 12 years and chaired the math department at Greene County High School for 12 years. His lasting impact on the school was recognized when the gym floor was named “Ricks-Wilkerson Court” in honor of his contributions.
Throughout his career, Ricks was known as much for his character as his accomplishments. He was recognized among “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers,” was chosen STAR teacher, named students Hall of Fame teacher many times and given honorary membership into the Greene County Hall of Fame by teachers and administrators. Rick is also an ordained deacon and minister of music at Cedar Grove Baptist Church, and he and his wife Barbara still reside in Greene County. They just celebrated 51 years of marriage.
