The History
McFadden Building has become a crucial element in the success of Clemson Athletics. This building, located on the outskirts of campus, is the home to the many Senior and Associate Athletic Directors, along with many other positions of responsibility that help ensure the smooth running of the Athletic Program.
Initially built in 1995, the building was named in honor of Banks McFadden, known for his athletic versatility and frequent record-setting. He was an All-American in both football and basketball in the same calendar year (1939) and was recognized as the only Clemson athlete to do that. He was later named the nation’s most multitalented athlete for 1939-40 for the following achievements:
- Clemson’s first wire-service AP All-American
- Record setter on the football field as a runner, passer, and punter
- Led Tigers to a state championship in track twice in his three years on the team
- Elected to the National Football Hall of Fame in 1959
- Received Distinguished Alumni Award from Clemson in 1966
- Charter member of the Clemson Athletic Hall of Fame and South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame
- He is the only Clemson player to have his jersey retired in two sports
- The number-four pick of the Brooklyn Dodgers (football) after the 1939 season, still recognized as the highest draft pick ever by a Clemson player
- Led the NFL in yards per rush in his first and only year in the league
- Coached the defensive backs at Clemson for 26 years, along with being head basketball coach from 1947-56
In 1987, both his uniform numbers—#23 in basketball and #66 in football—were retired by Clemson Athletics. In 1994, he was inducted as a charter member of the Clemson Ring of Honor at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Of all of the honors he received as an athlete, he said the 1939 football team MVP award was his highest honor. “To me, when your teammates vote you something, then you feel pretty good. That award meant more than anything else to me.”McFadden is the only Clemson athlete to date to have both his football jersey and basketball jersey numbers retired.
Clemson’s McFadden Building, dedicated in 1995, is in his honor. The building adjacent to the Jervey Athletic Center was the University and Athletic Department’s way of honoring and showing admiration towards Banks in a way that could keep his achievements alive. Away from athletics, he was a true champion in various other forms. His modest demeanor, his positive outlook, and his gentlemanly personality were all trademarks associated with Banks McFadden, in addition to his love for Clemson.