The New York Renaissance was an All-Black professional basketball squad, established in 1923 that became a dominant force in the game. On this day in 1939, the Rens became the first all-Black basketball squad to win a world championship.
Known as the father of Black basketball, Robert “Bob” Douglas, a native of St. Kitts, owned a pair of Black pro teams in the ’20’s. Douglas, in search of a home for his Spartan Braves squad, struck a deal with a real estate developer to hold games at the New York Renaissance Casino and Ballroom. The ballroom became the Rens’ home court and they vanquished opponents with unyielding frequency.
NBA historical accounts state that in one season, the Rens had a 112-7 record and were 2,588-529 overall. Legendary Hall of Fame coach John Wooden played against the Rens and called them one of the best teams he’s ever played. Despite accolades from white players and interest from larger leagues, the Rens’ road trips came with racist taunts and the threat of violence.
The Rens, also known as the Renaissance Big Five, took on the all-white Oshkosh All-Stars in Chicago at the World Professional Basketball Championships and won. Their play helped establish other Black squads like the Harlem Globetrotters, and paved the way for integration in the sport. The team eventually disbanded in 1949 and the merger between the racially integrated National Basketball League and the formerly all-white National Basketball Association took place.
The entire team was inducted into the Professional Basketball Hall of Fame in 1963, including well-known members such as Frank Forbes, Harold “Fat” Jenkins, Leon Monde, “Wee” William Smith and Hall of Famer Chuck “Tarzan” Cooper.
