John T. Lentz Basketball Scholarship Fund

The legacy of Coach John Lentz is woven into the very fabric of Lenoir-Rhyne University and LR Athletics. Born in Willingboro, New Jersey, Lentz was a standout student-athlete for the Bears from 1970–74 before returning to serve nearly three decades (1986–2015) as head coach of the men’s basketball program.

On the court, he was our all-time assists leader (524) and fifth in career points (1,755). As a coach, his impact was just as extraordinary. Lentz won a record 432 games, led the Bears to nine postseason appearances including the 1993 NAIA Elite Eight, earned five SAC Coach of the Year honors, and guided four SAC Players of the Year. He claimed 12 South Atlantic Conference championships and holds the most coaching victories in both LR and SAC history. In recognition of his remarkable career and influence, he was inducted into both the Lenoir-Rhyne and Catawba County Sports Halls of Fame, and in 2020, the basketball court in Shuford Memorial Arena was named in his honor.

The Coach John Lentz Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established to honor Coach Lentz's memory. This scholarship will support an undergraduate men’s basketball player, ensuring Coach Lentz’s commitment to student-athletes lives on for generations to come.

Prefer to make a donation by check: Make the check out to Lenoir-Rhyne University and write John T. Lentz Basketball Scholarship in the memo line. Checks can be mailed to: Lenoir-Rhyne University 625 7th Ave NE, LRU 7467 Hickory, NC 28601.

Questions? Email Stephanie.Roberts@lr.edu or Call 828.328.7998.