Pitt to Retire Sam Clancy’s Jersey, Honoring a Local Legend

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – The University of Pittsburgh will retire the jersey of basketball legend Sam Clancy during a ceremony at the Panthers’ home game against Clemson on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. Clancy, a Pittsburgh native and one of the program’s most iconic players, will become the fifth player in Pitt history to receive this honor.

“It’s been amazing,” Clancy said during an appearance on the Jeff Capel Show. “I’m so grateful and humble for what the university has done for me and what I have tried to accomplish for the university. I owe the university everything. It’s who I am.”

Clancy, who wore No. 15, left an indelible mark on Pitt basketball during his career from 1977 to 1981. He remains the program’s all-time leader in rebounds with 1,342 and scored 1,671 points, ranking among the top scorers in Pitt history. His contributions helped elevate the Panthers from a struggling program to a consistent contender in the 1980s.

“The year before Sam got there, I think their record was 6-21,” said Sporting News writer Mike DeCourcy. “Sam got there, and they didn’t lose. They never had a losing season with Sam, and they continued to ascend. If Sam goes somewhere else, I don’t know if Pitt has the success they had in the 80s.”

Born and raised in Pittsburgh’s historic Hill District, Clancy led Fifth Avenue High School to a state championship in 1976 before transferring to Brashear High School after Fifth Avenue closed. His decision to stay home and play for Pitt was influenced by a chance encounter with Pitt football legend Tony Dorsett, who urged him to represent his city.

“Tony Dorsett came over and said, ‘Sam, I’m telling you, you got to stay home for the City of Pittsburgh,'” Clancy recalled. “They will love you forever and never forget you.”

Clancy’s legacy extends beyond his statistics. He is remembered for his leadership, work ethic, and connection to the Pittsburgh community. His mother, a constant presence at games, was one of his biggest supporters. “If I have a regret, it’s that my parents aren’t here to see this,” Clancy said.

Current Pitt guard Jaland Lowe, who also wears No. 15, will continue to don the number with Clancy’s blessing. “I’m thrilled that 15 will be represented the way it should be,” Clancy said. “The way I tried to play is the way he’s playing—trying to work hard, play defense, and be a leader.”

Pitt head coach Jeff Capel praised Clancy’s impact on the program and the city. “We are just really excited to honor Sam and what he means to this university, to the city, to our program, and to the University of Pittsburgh,” Capel said.

Clancy’s jersey retirement ceremony will take place at noon on Saturday, as the Panthers host Clemson at the Petersen Events Center.