Purnell “Bam” Perry, a native of Aiken, South Carolina, is one of the most dominant players in the history of Voorhees College basketball.
A graduate of South Aiken High School, Perry comes from a family of accomplished athletes. He is the nephew of former professional football standouts Michael Dean and William Perry, widely known as “The Refrigerator,” who starred at Clemson University before earning Super Bowl fame in the NFL.
After a brief stint at the University of South Carolina Aiken, Perry transferred to Voorhees — a move that would cement his legacy in Tiger history.
Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 235 pounds, Perry combined strength, explosiveness, and quickness to become a premier force on the court. Known for bench pressing over 400 pounds, finishing with authority at the rim, and utilizing a powerful two-foot jumper, he averaged 26 points and 10 rebounds per game during his standout run.
Perry’s accolades are among the most decorated in program history:
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Three-time NAIA All-American (1993, 1994, 1995)
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Two-time Player of the Year
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NAIA District 6 Player of the Year
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Three-time All-EIAC First Team selection
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EIAC Most Valuable Player
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Basketball Times Small College All-American
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Street & Smith’s Preseason Small College Player of the Year
In 1995, Perry helped lead Voorhees to its first-ever NAIA National Tournament appearance, elevating the program to national prominence.
His blend of physical dominance, elite athleticism, and competitive drive made him one of the most electrifying players of his era and a cornerstone figure in Voorhees basketball history.
