NASHVILLE, TN – February 3, 2025 – Former University of Tennessee basketball standout Ron Slay has been named to the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025. Slay was surprised with the announcement on Monday by family and co-workers during his afternoon radio show “3HL” on 104.5 The Zone – WGFX-FM. The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, sponsored by the Tennessee Lottery, celebrates the state’s rich sports heritage and honors those who have made a lasting impact within their communities.
“Ron Slay’s passion for the game of basketball and his dedication to excellence made him one of the most exciting players to ever wear the Tennessee orange,” said Brad Willis, Executive Director of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame. “His leadership on and off the court, as well as his contributions to the sport in Tennessee, make him a deserving member of the Hall of Fame. We are thrilled to welcome him to the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025.”
A native of Nashville, Tennessee, Slay played for the University of Tennessee from 1999-2003, making an immediate impact as a versatile forward. As a senior in 2003, he was named the SEC Player of the Year after averaging 21.2 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. Known for his energy, toughness and scoring ability, Slay became a fan-favorite and helped lead the Vols to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances.
After his collegiate career, Slay played professionally for over a decade, competing internationally in leagues in Italy, Spain, Israel, Portugal, France, Puerto Rico and Venezuela. His impact on basketball extended beyond his playing days, as he has remained involved in the game as a media personality and mentor to young athletes. Slay was named a 2017 SEC Basketball Legend and to the Tennessee Basketball All-Century Team. Slay currently co-hosts the 3HL afternoon drive show on WGFX-FM in Nashville and serves as a basketball analyst for SEC Network.
Slay joins Chris Woodruff, Deon Grant, Doug Mathews, Derrick Mason, Stephen Gostkowski, Larry Kenon, Priscilla Gary Sweeney, the late Ronnie Robinson, the late Phillip Clark, Tony Allen, Elston Turner, George Pitts and Bob Brown as announced members of the Class of 2025. The full 2025 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Induction Class will be released in the coming weeks.
The 2025 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony, presented by the Tennessee Titans, will take place on Saturday, July 19th, at the Omni Nashville Downtown.
About the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame
Established in 1966, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, sponsored by the Tennessee Lottery, enshrines and honors athletes, teams, coaches, sports writers and sports administrators who have made an impact on the history of Tennessee sports. The Hall serves as a platform to connect athletes, coaches, sports fans, and supporters by acknowledging life achievements implemented through sports. The Hall celebrates athletes of all forms, from all across the state. Additionally, Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame aspires to educate youth about the importance of healthy habits and the positive impact they have on lifestyle choices. For more information, visit www.tshf.net.
