NABJ Celebrates the Legacy of Fred Hickman

The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) mourns the loss of pioneering sports broadcaster Fred Hickman, who passed Wednesday at 66.

With a career spanning more than four decades, Hickman, a Springfield, Illinois native, was an inspiration and mentor to many Black journalists. He was a long-standing supporter and active member of NABJ.

Upon learning of his passing, fellow NABJ members, former colleagues and mentees from across the industry took to social media to celebrate his impact as a “great talent,” “welcoming presence,” “journalism legend,” and “kind and encouraging friend.”

“Fred Hickman was a shining example of perseverance and an incredible role model for Black journalists,” said NABJ President Dorothy Tucker. “His contributions to sports journalism and the industry nationwide live on through the many lives he touched.”

During his time at TBS, Hickman was one of the first hosts of “Inside the NBA,” which is now a mainstay on TNT. He was the first broadcaster for the Yankee Entertainment and Sports Network and was a co-anchor of CNN’s “Sports Tonight,” making him one of the original anchors for CNN’s sports division. He also hosted ESPN’s SportsCenter and many other popular programs on sports networks, including FOX Sports South.

Hickman was a multifaceted journalist and was a successful prime-time anchor, director and editor in local news including at WDVM-TV in Maryland, WVLA-TV and WVUE-TV in Louisiana, WDIV-TV in Michigan, and WICS-TV in Illinois.

Before his passing, Hickman was an anchor and managing editor for the Black News Channel. He also owned Fred Hickman Communications, where he provided athletes, coaches and front-office sports personnel with media training.

Hickman was also a voice-over artist, narrator, master of ceremonies and event host. He was the recipient of two CableACE Awards and a New York Sports Emmy Award.

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