Former men’s basketball team manager passes away

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Former UT Basketball Manager Bobby Graney of Dunedin, Fla., died June 30. He was 58.

Graney served as head ball boy for the men’s basketball team from 1979 to 2000, and could always be found in his seat at the end of the scorer’s table next to the Rocket bench at every home basketball game. He also worked with the football and women’s basketball teams.

In the late 1980s, Graney increased his duties and began attending every UT men’s and women’s basketball practice where he would run the scoreboard and the clock. He also helped out in the equipment room.

In 2000, Graney, who had Down syndrome, retired with his family to Florida, where the climate was better suited to his condition.

He was inducted into The University of Toledo Varsity ‘T’ Hall of Fame in 2000.

“All of us who knew and worked with Bobby came to love him,” said UT Deputy Athletic Director Dave Nottke, who worked with Graney during his time as a basketball manager in the 1990s. “He was a fixture at UT basketball games and practices. The UT Athletic Department extends its deepest sympathies to Bobby’s family during this difficult time.”

Graney is survived by parents, Bonnie and Mike; brother, Tim (June); sister, Michelle (Andrew); brother, Chris; nephews, Zach (Sarah) and Brandon; and niece, Emily.

Services will be private. The family gives special thanks to all their friends who knew Bobby, to the UT basketball staff, coaches, players, and everyone who made his life normal and complete.

Memorials are suggested to the UT Foundation for the basketball program.