CHARLOTTE, NC – Johnson C. Smith University Athletics will retire the basketball jerseys of Bob Butts to honor his historic playing career at JCSU. The ceremony will take place on Saturday, February 18, 2023 inside Brayboy Gymnasium.

Robert Butts came to Johnson C. Smith from Orange High School in Orange New Jersey, in 1968. Butts was born in Waverly, Virginia before moving to Orange, NJ. In his four years (1968-72) at J.C. Smith, Butts grabbed 1,369 rebounds.

Butts was the leading rebounder during his career averaging, 17.3 rebounds per game. He was selected to the All-CIAA on three occasions (1968-1972).

Butts joins Fred "Curly" Neal (1959-63), Mark Sherrill (1988-92), Columbus Parker (1989-93) and Dantae Johnson as the fifth Golden Bulls to have their jersey retired.

JCSU will challenge Claflin University on Saturday, February 18 in the last home game of the 2022-23 season. Game time is slated for 2:00 p.m. (women) and 4:00 p.m. (men). The ceremony will take place in halftime of the men's game.