The ESPN Films documentary The Rebel, part of the SEC Storied series, premiered on May 30, 2017, spotlighting the life and career of Johnny Neumann, a former University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) basketball star. Directed by Paul Carruthers, the film delves into Neumann’s meteoric rise in college basketball, his professional journey, and his eventual return to complete his education.
Early Life and College Career
Johnny Neumann was born on September 11, 1951, in Memphis, Tennessee. Standing 6 feet 6 inches tall, he was a standout player at Overton High School, earning comparisons to LSU’s Pete Maravich. In 1969, he joined the Ole Miss Rebels, where he played for just one season. During the 1970–71 season, Neumann led the nation in scoring with an average of 40.1 points per game, a record that remains unmatched in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). He also set the Ole Miss single-season scoring record with 923 points and achieved a career-high 63 points in a game against LSU. His exceptional performance earned him SEC Player of the Year honors and several All-America accolades
Professional Career
After his sophomore year, Neumann left college to play professional basketball. He began with the Memphis Tams in the American Basketball Association (ABA) and later played in the NBA with teams including the Utah Stars, Virginia Squires, Indiana Pacers, and Los Angeles Lakers. Beyond the United States, Neumann’s professional career took him overseas, where he played and coached in countries such as China, Greece, Israel, Japan, and Lebanon. His international experience enriched his coaching career, leading him to positions in various countries, including head coach roles in Cyprus, Greece, and China
Return to Education
Despite his professional success, Neumann had not completed his college degree. In 2013, at the age of 62, he returned to Ole Miss to finish his education. Overcoming initial apprehensions about returning to a college environment, Neumann found support and encouragement from faculty and students. In 2016, at 65, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in general studies, with minors in journalism, recreation administration, and legal studies. His return to academia was a testament to his commitment to personal growth and education
Legacy and Recognition
Neumann’s impact on college basketball and his personal journey have left a lasting legacy. In 2016, he was honored as an SEC Basketball Legend during the conference tournament. His story was featured in the SEC Storied documentary The Rebel, which highlighted his basketball achievements and personal growth. Neumann’s life exemplifies resilience and the importance of education, serving as an inspiration to athletes and individuals pursuing their goals.
Johnny Neumann passed away on April 23, 2019, at the age of 68, after a battle with brain cancer. His contributions to basketball and his dedication to education continue to be remembered by the Ole Miss community and beyond .
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