Jacksonville University announced that it will commission a permanent bronze statue of Artis Gilmore, the Hall of Fame center who helped the Dolphins reach the 1970 NCAA championship game. The work will be placed prominently on the campus and will serve as a lasting tribute to a figure who remains deeply connected to the university.
A legacy funded by generosity
The statue is being financed by the Nimnicht family, longtime benefactors of the school. Lee Nimnicht, a 1990 graduate, has been a steadfast supporter, and the family’s philanthropy includes scholarships that have assisted numerous students. Their contribution underscores a commitment to preserving the history of Jacksonville basketball.
Gilmore’s impact on the program is reflected in his collegiate rebounding average of 22.7 per game, the highest in NCAA Division I history. He led the Dolphins to the 1970 championship game and later enjoyed a 17‑year professional career in the ABA and NBA. His achievements were recognized with induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011.
Beyond his playing days, Gilmore has remained an ambassador for Jacksonville University, serving in a special assistant role to the president. His ongoing involvement has helped bridge the university’s past with its present, fostering connections with alumni and current students alike.
Crafting the tribute
The sculpture will be created by Brian Hanlon, founder of Hanlon Sculpture Studio. Hanlon, the official sculptor of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, has produced more than 550 permanent installations worldwide. His expertise ensures that the piece will capture Gilmore’s stature and character with artistic precision.
The bronze work is expected to be unveiled in a ceremony that will bring together university leaders, alumni, and members of the local community. The installation will not only celebrate Gilmore’s athletic excellence but also his role as a mentor and representative of the university’s enduring spirit.