University of Kentucky Athletics: Adolph Rupp Oral History Project

Adolph Rupp, known as the "Baron of the Bluegrass" and "The Man in the Brown Suit," served as University of Kentucky's basketball coach from 1931 to 1972. During his time at UK, Rupp earned an eighty-two percent win percentage, twenty-seven Southeastern Conference titles, and four NCAA championships. In these interviews, Rupp discusses his experiences growing up and playing basketball in Halstead, Kansas, his time as a student and basketball player at University of Kansas, and his coaching career at Freeport High School (Illinois) and University of Kentucky. He describes the transition between University of Kansas coaches Karl Schlademan and Forrest "Phog" Allen and what is what like to play for each. Rupp also discusses Dr. James Naismith, the inventor of basketball. In addition, Rupp describes his transition from coaching at Freeport High School (Indiana) to University of Kentucky. He discusses his experiences coaching at UK including the players, recruiting players, integrating the basketball team, games, championships, and his coaching style and strategy. Additionally, Rupp discusses his relationship with and the changes that occurred under various UK Presidents including Frank L. McVey, Herman L. Donovan, Frank G. Dickey, and John W. Oswald.