DETROIT – Detroit sports icon Ron “Schoolboy” Teasley died Feb. 3, 2026, leaving behind a historic legacy that extends far beyond the baseball diamond.
Born Jan. 26, 1927, in Detroit, Teasley was a standout athlete from an early age. He earned the nickname “Schoolboy” for his remarkable talent and discipline.
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At Detroit Northwestern High School, he excelled in basketball and baseball, later earning Hall of Fame honors as both a player and coach.
Teasley was inducted into six halls of fame and served in the U.S. Navy.
He was signed by the Brooklyn Dodgers organization after Jackie Robinson’s integration of Major League Baseball, making him one of the early athletes who helped break racial barriers in the sport.
Teasley played for the Olean Oilers and professionally with the New York Cubans in the Negro Leagues and the Carman Cardinals of the Mandak League, further cementing his place in baseball history.
Teasley’s .500 batting average record still stands at Wayne State University, where he is also a Hall of Famer and played basketball.
After his playing career, Teasley returned to Detroit Northwestern to teach and coach, winning 15 championships and inspiring student-athletes to reach their potential.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Teasley was a pillar of the National Negro Leagues Family Alliance (NLFA).
He was a constant presence at events and educational programs, sharing stories and ensuring the legacy of Negro Leagues players remained alive.
His voice conveyed the wisdom of lived experience, and his presence brought warmth and a sense of community.
His legacy lives on through the families, students, and fans he inspired.
Schoolboy’s legacy remains a guiding light for those committed to remembering, educating, and celebrating the heroes of the Negro Leagues.