Our story
The Bassett Society was founded in 1985 by long-time team physician Dr. Frank Bassett and former All-American physician Dr. T. Moorman, II to honor Duke varsity letter-winners with scholarship support for medical and dental education after their Duke careers.
The Bassett Society is committed to helping make the dreams of young doctors and dentists a reality. By providing scholarships to Duke athletes entering or enrolled in medical or dental school, society members not only honor the legacy of Dr. Bassett and Dr. Moorman but also ensure a bright and hopeful tomorrow.
Our founders
Frank H. Bassett, MD
1929-2007
As a team doctor, he devoted his life to the care of Duke athletes. His skill as an orthopedic surgeon helped countless players get back on the field and into the game. His work not only helped Duke win championships but set the gold standard in the world of sports medicine today. He was known for his humor, loyalty, and deep love of Duke football. For athletes desiring to enter the medical profession, he was both coach and mentor. His insight and encouragement shaped and nurtured the lives of these future doctors. He never forgot the hard work and dedication it took to him to finish his education. He became their biggest fan; cheering them on and providing the support to help make their dreams come true. He knew that being “True Blue” means more than just showing up for games. It means reaching out to invest in the next generation. It means giving others hope and a future and leaving a legacy that inspires others to do the same.
Claude T. Moorman, II, MD
1939-2009
Moorman lettered three years (1958-60) for Duke football and helped lead the Blue Devils to the 1960 ACC Championship, a No. 10 final national ranking by the Associated Press and a 7-6 win over seventh-ranked Arkansas in the Cotton Bowl. As a senior, Moorman was selected a first-team All-American by both the Football Writers Association of America and the Football News. He posted 54 receptions, still the 12th-best single-season total for a Blue Devil and the second-highest ever by a tight end. He finished his career with 71 receptions for 709 yards and five touchdowns. He completed his M.D. at Duke in 1966 and trained in orthopaedics under Dr. Lenox Baker. He then served as a medical officer in Vietnam. He later completed law school and served with the Army Department of Legal Medicine, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology in Washington, D.C.. He then commanded US Army Reserve units at multiple sites and retired as Colonel from the USAR in 1998. In 2008, he was named to the ACC Legends team.
