Massachusetts Athletics has announced a leadership-level commitment by Ed “Sign Man” Rubin, and his wife, Ann Marie, to support the men’s basketball program. The gift will contribute to current programmatic enhancements, along with leaving a legacy for perpetual funding. With the gift, Legacy Hall inside the John Francis Kennedy Basketball Champions Center will be named in their honor. Ed and Ann Marie were recognized at the UMass basketball game against South Florida on Dec. 2.

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“I’ve had more experiences than I can count as it relates to the ‘signs’ and the connections I have made with people who care deeply about UMass Basketball are long-lasting,” said Ed. “This was never intended to be about me, but to promote UMass and the basketball program. The ‘Sign Man’ took off beyond what I could have ever imagined. Ann Marie and I are so proud to make this commitment and to be part of the legacy of Massachusetts Basketball.”

A native of Everett, Mass., Ed served as a basketball student manager under the leadership of legendary head coach Jack Leaman. His involvement with UMass Athletics and the basketball program has continued for the last seven decades.

“I want to thank Ed and Ann Marie for this tremendous commitment to our men’s basketball program,” said Director of Athletics Ryan Bamford. “They have been longstanding advocates for all our teams, but this gift highlights their passion for basketball. You also can’t talk about the rich history of UMass men’s basketball without recognizing the impact the ‘Sign Man’ has had on countless alumni and fans who have attended games over the last 30 years.”

Ed’s first sign debuted in 1994 at a UMass game against Florida State, and ever since, “Sign Man” has held special significance with UMass alumni, family and friends. With over 500 signs shared at home and road games, “Sign Man” will remain an important part of the history of UMass Athletics.

“I can’t say enough about the passion and love for UMass, and the athletic department, that has been shown by Ed and Ann Marie,” said Assistant Vice President for Development David Biancamano. “They love the institution and were eager to support the current student-athletes while leaving a legacy to contribute to the program in the future. We are humbled by their generosity.”

Ed graduated from UMass in 1969 with a finance degree from the Isenberg School of Management and earned a master’s degree from the University of Florida in 1970. He went on to have a very successful career in the insurance business. Ann Marie is a 1972 graduate of the College of Natural Sciences. She retired in 2020 as a principal engineering program manager at Red Hat.

The Ed and Ann Marie Rubin Massachusetts Basketball Legacy Hall is housed in the John Francis Center Champions Center. Legacy Hall serves as a focal point for all the basketball history at UMass. Showcased in the space is a timeline of UMass basketball, Hall of Famers, All-Americans, and All-Conference winners, along with successful teams and coaches.