Meet Ron Brown: California Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025

Ron Brown’s electrifying speed carried him to gold at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, where he helped the U.S. 4x100-meter relay team set a world record.

But Brown’s achievements didn’t end on the track. He transitioned to the NFL, where he starred for the Los Angeles Rams as a dynamic wide receiver and record-setting kick returner.

On Sunday night (June 29), Brown will join four other legends – boxer Shane Mosley, San Francisco 49ers All-Pro offensive lineman and Super Bowl champion Jesse Sapolu, four-time Olympic swimming gold medalist Janet Evans, and soccer great Paul Caligiuri– as the newest members of the California Sports Hall of Fame.

The five will be inducted during formal ceremonies at the Ontario Convention Center.

“Ron Brown is one of the rare athletes who achieved greatness in two sports, and who has continued to make a difference long after his playing days were over. It is a privilege to welcome him as a Hall of Famer,” said Christian Okoye, a former NFL star who founded the California Sports Hall of Fame in 2006.

A Los Angeles native, Brown starred at Baldwin Park High School and Arizona State University, excelling in both football and track. After his Olympic triumph, he went on to be a second-round pick of the Rams, earning All-Pro honors and establishing himself as one of the NFL’s most dangerous return specialists.

Following his athletic career, Brown has dedicated himself to philanthropy and mentoring youth, serving as CEO of Players Congress-Football Legends and working extensively with programs supporting at-risk students.

He also has partnered with various organizations, including Charter Schools for drop-out teens, Unity 1, Teen Savers Drug and Intervention Programs, Project Touch (supporting homeless centers), Action Sports Youth Program, and Choices (an interactive decision-making workshop). He supports Neighborhood Recovery Programs through Brown & Associations and works with Crescent Financial Group, in creating business plans and private placement for funding small businesses.

Tickets are still available for the California Sports Hall of Fame Gala at: https://www.californiasportshalloffame.org/p/tickets. The event starts with a reception at 4 p.m., followed by a dinner and induction ceremony beginning at 5 p.m.