University of Kentucky has experienced some exceptionally talented basketball players throughout the years. Among those, is Stan Key. He played for UK in the late 60s and early 70s. Key played a crucial role during his years at UK, and even averaged 12 ½ points during his 1971-1972 season.
Stan Key grew up in southwestern Kentucky, in Callaway County, in a town called Hazel. Around the age of five or six, Key recalls his parents encouraging him to try sports, such as baseball and basketball. But Key was always especially interested in basketball, and the basketball goals in the house certainly helped increase his interest. Key also recalls his passion in basketball growing when his father and grandfather would go to the state basketball tournament and bring him the tournament program. Key recalls flipping through the pages of the programs, wishing, and thinking he could one day be able to play in the Kentucky high school basketball tournament.
The dream of playing in the Sweet 16 would one day come true for Key while playing at Callaway County High. Key had an incredible senior season while playing there, averaging around 29.6 points per game, even without a three-point line. Key remembers his high school coach fondly, who gave him a lot of freedom in terms of shooting and handling the ball. Key is also thankful to his high school and college teammates who were accepting of him handling and shooting the ball as much as he did.
In 1968 Stan Key signed with UK, despite having grown up going to Murray State University games. Murray State did recruit Key, but he ultimately was drawn to UK because of Rupp and the excitement surrounding the team. Key did not want to pass up the opportunity to play for Coach Rupp and with his team. Key would go on to have a very solid career at UK, and played a vital role in the last team Adolph Rupp ever coached.
Once Key’s career at UK ended, he continued to play basketball as long as he could, until around age 50. He unfortunately underwent two knee replacements and could no longer play. However, Key still enjoys showing his grandson his shot for free throws, and makes sure to explain, it’s all in the legs.
Comments