Charlotte 49ers announce second Athletics Hall of Fame class

The second class elected to the Charlotte 49ers Athletics Hall of Fame includes three legends from the men’s basketball program, the school’s first women’s basketball All-America as well as a pair of alums whose long-standing support has helped build the department’s very foundation.

“We are excited to welcome another class of all-time greats into the 49ers Athletics Hall of Fame,” Director of Athletics Mike Hill said. “There are so many individuals that have helped build the foundation of our department and it’s an honor to be able to recognize these amazing Niners. Each in their way has had a huge impact on our program and we are thrilled to welcome them into our Hall of Fame.”

Men’s basketball coach Jeff Mullins, who led the 49ers to three of Charlotte’s first four NCAA Tournaments; guard Byron Dinkins, who starred for the breakthrough 1988 Sun Belt Champion and NCAA Tournament team; and guard Henry Williams, the program’s all-time leading scorer, make up part of the Hall of Fame Class of2022. Paula Bennett, who earned first team All-America honors for the 49ers in 1981, becomes the first women’s basketball player elected into the Hall of Fame. In addition, Gene and Vickie Johnson, who have bolstered the program with their leadership, counsel and resources, were elected as contributors.

Charlotte inducted its inaugural class, Sept. 9, 2022. The 2022 class will be inducted in the fall 2023.

Read more about the honorees on the Charlotte 49ers website.