Billy J. Haney, born on January 9, 1930, crafted an illustrious career that led to his 1994 induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame as a contributor. His journey, deeply rooted in sports broadcasting and direct service, significantly impacted high school sports within Tennessee.

Haney's professional life took an early turn towards sports when he helped open Milan, TN's first radio station, WKBJ-AM, where local basketball and football games were broadcasted. This experience would become the foundation of his service to TSSAA, beginning a lifelong commitment to high school sports coverage.

From 1955 to 1992, Haney dedicated 38 years of his career to covering local TSSAA high school sports, a testament to his passion and commitment to youth athletics. His role expanded considerably in 1965 when WKBJ added an FM station and formed the West TN Basketball Network to broadcast TSSAA State Basketball Boys’ and Girls’ Tournaments, thereby increasing the reach and influence of high school sports across the region.

During 1964 to 1970, Haney also served as a TSSAA official for football, further demonstrating his versatility and dedication to high school athletics from the field. His service took a significant leap in 1993 when TSSAA authorized a statewide network under Haney's guidance, alongside Dick Palmer and Dan Hughes. This initiative attracted 22 stations over the state, significantly enhancing the coverage and appreciation of high school sports across Tennessee.

Over his career, Haney broadcasted over 2,000 TSSAA high school games. His contributions went beyond the microphone; he played a pivotal role in forming the Tennessee Basketball State Network when TSSAA moved to three classifications, working with the late Monte Hale, Sr. to feed stations all across the state.

Beyond his TSSAA contributions, Haney's legacy includes inductions into multiple Halls of Fame and recognition as Milan Man of the Year among other accolades. His post-FBI career (1949-1955) was marked by dedication to community service, including a stint with the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict and conducting the Billy Haney Sports Show on ESPN Radio—96.5 in Lexington, TN from 2000 onwards.

Billy Haney's 1994 induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame celebrates his remarkable contributions as a broadcaster, official, and proponent of high school sports in Tennessee. His decades-long service and influential initiatives have left an indelible mark on the TSSAA and high school athletics statewide.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 1994
Category: Contributor