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University of Rhode Island

Hall of Fame

John S. Messina ('37)

John S. Messina

  • Class
    1937
  • Induction
    1978
  • Sport(s)
    Football, Baseball, Basketball - Men
JOHN S. MESSINA '37, termed by many as one of the most outstanding athletes in Rhode Island history, earned nine varsity letters at Rhode Island State College in football, basketball, and baseball. Credited with pioneer efforts in the famed Frank Keaney fast-break system of basketball, he died in WWII during the invasion of Sicily as a U.S. Army paratrooper.
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