Kentucky basketball legends gather for Historic Memorial Coliseum book launch
LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 23, 2025) — Historic Memorial Coliseum and the University of Kentucky Alumni Association will host a special gathering of Kentucky basketball legends 5:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 11, for the launch of “Memorial Coliseum: 75 Years as Monument, Stage, and Arena,” written by Kevin Cook.
The book chronicles the dual legacy of Memorial Coliseum, which opened in 1950 as both a memorial to Kentuckians who lost their lives in military service and as the home court for Kentucky basketball. Cook, a Navy veteran with a master’s degree in history, offers insight into the building’s significance in sports and its broader cultural impact.
“There have been hundreds of books written about Kentucky basketball, but none quite like ‘Memorial Coliseum: 75 Years as Monument, Stage, and Arena,’” said Dan Issel, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer. “This is a book every Big Blue fan should have.”
Published by Acclaim Press, the book combines thorough research with personal stories from those who played, worked and attended events in the arena. Cook’s background as both a military veteran and lifelong Kentucky fan gives a unique perspective on the coliseum’s role as a memorial and sports venue.
An all-star lineup of UK legends will be joining Cook for the book signing including (but not limited to):
- Jim Andrews: Two-time All-SEC center, UK Athletics Hall of Fame
- Dicky Beal: Point guard for 1984 Final Four team, 1984 NCAA Regional Most Outstanding Player
- Doug Flynn: UK basketball freshman team, member of the Cincinnati Reds Big Red Machine, MLB Gold Glove winner
- Mike Flynn: 1975 All-NCAA Regional Team, starter for 1975 Final Four team, Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame
- Jack "Goose" Givens: 1978 NCAA Championship MVP, All-American, UK basketball radio analyst
- Ralph Hacker: former “Voice of the Wildcats,” Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame
- Tom Hammond: Former sports broadcaster, Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame
- Coach Dick Parsons: starter and captain for Coach Rupp, baseball All-American, assistant coach of 1978 National Champions, UK Athletics Hall of Fame
- Jared Prickett: All-NCAA Regional Team, 1996 NCAA National Champion
- Chip Rupp: Grandson of Coach Rupp, elite college player
- Jay Shidler: The "Blond Bomber," Academic All-American
- Larry Stamper: Defensive stopper, averaged a double-double for Coach Adolph Rupp
- Kenny Walker: "Sky Walker,” two-time All-American and SEC Player of the Year
- Sean Woods: Point guard for "The Unforgettables," All-NCAA Regional Team
The Historic Memorial Coliseum recently underwent major renovations to preserve its architectural significance while updating it for modern use. The building remains a vital part of the University of Kentucky, hosting various athletic programs.
Tickets to the event are $10, with books available for $40. The public is invited to join this celebration of Kentucky basketball history and the lasting legacy of Historic Memorial Coliseum.
For more information and to register, visit: https://www.ukalumni.net/memorialbook.
As the state’s flagship, land-grant institution, the University of Kentucky exists to advance the Commonwealth. We do that by preparing the next generation of leaders — placing students at the heart of everything we do — and transforming the lives of Kentuckians through education, research and creative work, service and health care. We pride ourselves on being a catalyst for breakthroughs and a force for healing, a place where ingenuity unfolds. It's all made possible by our people — visionaries, disruptors and pioneers — who make up 200 academic programs, a $476.5 million research and development enterprise and a world-class medical center, all on one campus.