Northwest has a rich tradition on the hardwood, and Calvin Madlock is just one of many to thank for the Rangers’ basketball success.
Madlock played for one of many talented teams coached by Northwest Sports Hall of Fame coach Kenneth “Cat” Robbins and helped the Rangers finish with a combined 55-7 overall record from 1979-81. In his two seasons in Senatobia, Madlock and his teammates also accomplished back-to-back 12-0 MACJC North Division records.
A native of Sardis, Madlock helped Northwest capture a pair of division titles, as well as the MACJC Championship during his 1979-80 freshman season. The Rangers also made more history that season, finishing 33-1 overall and reaching the NJCAA National Tournament for the first time in the program’s history, advancing all the way to the Sweet 16 round.
As a sophomore, Madlock’s skills increased as he led Northwest in scoring, averaging 22 points per game and 12 rebounds per game. His talents helped the Rangers post a 22-6 overall record, earning him All-MACJC and All-Region VII accolades. Madlock was also chosen to compete in the MACJC All-Star Game. Off the court, Madlock was voted Mr. NWJC and continued to succeed in his academics.
Receiving a Division I scholarship, Madlock transferred to Northwestern State University. His talents continued for the Demons from 1981-83, where he averaged 15.0 points per game during his senior campaign at Northwestern State. As a junior, Madlock helped NSU to a 19-9 overall record and in 2013, NSU selected Madlock and several of his teammates to the Demons’ “Fab 50” all-time basketball team, which was compiled to celebrate 100 years of NSU basketball.
As an undrafted rookie, Madlock was invited to and participated in the 1984 NBA Summer Pro League in Los Angeles/San Diego, California, showcasing his talent before an injury ended his pro career aspirations. In 1996, he earned the Drew League MVP award, along with a Drew League Championship with team Cheaters, where he continued competing alongside NBA players after shifting his career focus.
Madlock holds a Master of Science in Information Technology from Capella University and currently serves as chief director of IT for the Santa Monica Community College District in California. In addition to his professional achievements, Madlock is deeply committed to community service. He currently serves as president of the Heights at Ladera Board of Directors and has been actively involved with organizations such as the Weingart YMCA, University of Irvine Advisory Board, and Boys-To-Men Club of Los Angeles, which he incorporated to mentor young men in underserved communities.
