TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Bill Battle III, known for his significant contributions to college athletics as an athletic director, coach, and businessman, has passed away at the age of 82. He was a former player for the University of Alabama and was part of the squad that won the national championship under the legendary coach Paul “Bear” Bryant. The University of Alabama released a statement on Thursday confirming his death, although specific details were not disclosed.
In reaction to the news, Alabama’s current athletic director Greg Byrne expressed the profound impact Coach Battle had on the institution and collegiate sports as a whole. He described Battle as “a true visionary” who excelled in numerous aspects of the athletic domain.
Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Battle’s athletic journey began as a key player for the Crimson Tide from 1960 to 1962. His time on the field contributed to Bryant securing his inaugural national title in 1961. After earning a master’s degree in education in 1964 at Oklahoma while working under esteemed coach Bud Wilkinson, Battle’s coaching career commenced. He briefly served as an assistant at Army during a military commitment from 1964 to 1965 before moving to Tennessee in 1966, where he spent four years as an assistant coach.
At the young age of 28, Battle became the head coach of the Tennessee Volunteers after Doug Dickey’s departure to Florida. His tenure was marked by a record of 59 wins, 22 losses, and 2 ties, including victories in four out of five bowl games. Notably, in 1972, he made history by naming Condredge Holloway the starting quarterback, marking him as the first Black player to hold that position in the Southeastern Conference. That same year, the Volunteers also hosted their first night game at Neyland Stadium against Penn State.
In 1981, Battle founded the Collegiate Licensing Company, where he served as president and CEO until 2002, later selling the company to IMG in 2007. His later role as athletic director at Alabama began in 2013, during which the Crimson Tide achieved three national championships in just four years. He subsequently took on the position of special assistant to the university president.
Nick Saban, the former head coach at Alabama, referred to Battle as “first class,” praising him for his representation of the university with “tremendous character and integrity.” Saban also credited Battle for transforming the business side of college athletics, noting that their collaborative efforts were instrumental in Alabama’s 2015 national championship win.
Battle’s legacy includes induction into multiple halls of fame and various accolades. He received recognition from the National Football Foundation and the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, including a lifetime achievement award and the 2005 Paul W. Bryant Alumni Athlete Award.
SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey reflected on Battle’s career, highlighting him as an “innovative leader” who deeply valued his family and the unique opportunities provided through intercollegiate athletics. His contributions to sports will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.