John Buckley was the first big-time forward for Boston State College, earning NAIA All-American honors in 1963-64 after averaging the fourth-highest scoring average in school annals. The power forward netted 25.3 points to go with 14.9 rebounds per game as a sophomore to lead all New England small college players in points and rebounds. Buckley was a three-time All-New England performer during his four-year career, which spanned from 1962-66, and was named the Warrior's Most Valuable Player as a sophomore and a senior. Boston State enjoyed its greatest success during Buckley's senior campaign as the post-player led it to a 23-5 (.821) record. He graduated in 1966 as the school's all-time leading scorer with 1,575 points and top rebounder with 811 boards. His numbers stood the test of time with third place rankings in points and field goals (592), while standing fourth in career rebounds. A member of the Boston State College Gold Torch Society, Buckley went on to establish himself as one of the best NCAA soccer referees in the nation, officiating seven national championship tournaments and was tabbed NCAA Referee of the Year in 1986. He is also a four-time ECAC Referee of the Year and has retained the role of CYO Basketball Director since 1976. He is presently a teacher in the Natick, MA school system and earned a PHD from Boston University.