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The Fabulous Five

One frequently asked question tossed at basketball historians and sports authorities is, “Who were the ‘Fabulous Five’ of ?” The answer is (center), and (guards), “Wah Wah” Jones and (forwards). This famous 1947-48 team, captained by Rollins, won 36 and lost 3 while sweeping to Kentucky’s first NCAA title. The Fabulous Five then went on to participate as a unit in the Olympic Games, helping the USA team capture the world championship. Rollins graduated after the 1948 season, but the remaining four starters continued to play havoc with collegiate basketball and captured another NCAA title for Kentucky in 1949 with a record of 32-2.

The Fabulous Five 1948 – Seated: Ralph Beard, , Kenny Rollins Standing: Wallace “Wah Wah” Jones, Alex Groza, Cliff Barker

Ralph Beard and teammates watch as Kenny Rollins drives a nail in the spot where Beard launched and made a 52.5 foot shot against Tennessee February 14, 1948 in Alumni Gym.

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On This Day in UK Basketball History

On March 20, 1942, after winning its sixth SEC championship, UK wins its first NCAA Tournament game, 46-44, over Illinois.

 

On March 20, 1946, Ralph Beard's free throw with 40 seconds left lifted the Wildcats to their first national title in the NIT, with a 46-45 victory over Rhode Island before 18,475 in the old Madison Square Garden in New York City.

 

On March 20, 1948, Kentucky defeated Holy Cross, 60-52, in the 1948 NCAA Final Four.  Alex Groza went for 23 points and Ralph Beard 13 while Kentucky held Holy Cross star Bob Cousy to five points before 18,472 in the old Madison Square Garden in New York City. This was a pivotal win in the drive to Kentucky’s first NCAA title.

 

Wildcats Born on This Date

March 20, 1933

22 Ronald Clark

March 20, 1945

pat riley
42 Pat Riley

March 20, 1953

23 Jerry Hale

March 20, 1953

20 Jimmy Dan Conner