Pool & Billiard Magazine DAILY periodically spotlights a player or promoter who has been previously inducted into the Billiard Congress of America’s HALL OF FAME.
Luther “Wimpy” Lassiter (1919-1988) Inducted 1983
Considered by many to be the finest 9-ball player ever, Luther Lassiter was born in Elizabeth City, NC. Lassiter earned his nickname “Wimpy,” for all the hot dogs and Orange Crushes he could pack away as a youngster hanging around the local pool hall. By the time he was 17, “Wimpy” was packing away his share of opponents. Lassiter’s biggest years in tournament play came in the 1960s. In the 11 years of the Jansco brothers’ all-around championships in Johnston City, IL (1962-1972), Lassiter won the straight pool title five times, the nine-ball title four times and the one-pocket title once. On three occasions Lassiter went on to capture the All-Around title (1962, 1963, 1967). He also won the BCA U.S. Open in 1969 and the Stardust World All-Around championship in 1971.
The purpose of the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame is to honor outstanding people who, through their competitive skills and dedication, have enriched our sport and industry.
Two categories have be
en established in Billiard Congress of America’s Hall of Fame. The Greatest Player category shall be reserved for outstanding players who have been active in national or international competition for at least 20 years and have won at least one national or international championship. The Meritorious Service category shall be reserved for those who have made lasting, memorable and important contributions to billiards.