Bill Keightley facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bill Keightley
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|
|---|---|
| Born |
William Bond Keightley
December 17, 1926 |
| Died | March 31, 2008 (aged 81) |
| Nationality | American |
| Other names | "Mr. Wildcat" |
| Occupation | Equipment manager for University of Kentucky men's basketball, 1972–2008 |
William Bond Keightley (December 17, 1926 – March 31, 2008) was a very special person for the University of Kentucky men's basketball team. He was their equipment manager for an amazing 48 years! Everyone knew him as "Mr. Wildcat," and the players often called him "Mr. Bill" or "Big Smooth."
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Who Was Bill Keightley?
Bill Keightley was born in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. He was a talented basketball player in high school, playing as a center for Kavanaugh High. After graduating in 1944, he joined the United States Marine Corps and served in World War II.
Starting His Career
In 1962, Bill was working as a postal carrier. A friend, George Hukle, asked him to help out with his other job: managing equipment for the University of Kentucky basketball team. Bill said yes! Ten years later, he took over George's job as the main equipment manager.
He worked with many famous coaches during his time, including Adolph Rupp, Joe B. Hall, Eddie Sutton, Rick Pitino, Tubby Smith, and Billy Gillispie.
Amazing Achievements and Awards
Bill Keightley was a huge part of the Wildcats' success. He was with the team for three NCAA Championship wins!
- He celebrated championships in 1978, 1996, and 1998. He even wore one championship ring on each hand!
- In 1997, the university honored Bill by retiring a jersey in his name. This is a very rare honor, usually only given to players or coaches.
- For the 2009 season, his jersey was given the number #48. This was to show how much they appreciated his 48 years of service.
- In 2002, the university started the "Bill Keightley Award." This award goes to someone who shows great pride and respect for the Kentucky basketball program.
- He received a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005.
- In 2007, Bill was inducted into the Kentucky Athletic Hall of Fame.
- After he passed away, the Wildcats honored him during "Midnight Madness" in 2008. They even pulled up a piece of the basketball court from his usual seat as a memorial.
- For the 2009 season, the "K" on the front of the players' jerseys was outlined in black as a special tribute to him.
- In the 2013–14 season, the team held a series of home games called the "Keightley Classic" in his honor.
His Family and Interests
Bill Keightley was married to Hazel (Robinson) Keightley. They had one daughter named Karen. Karen also works for the university's athletic department. Bill was a big fan of the Cincinnati Reds baseball team.
Remembering Bill Keightley
Bill Keightley passed away on March 31, 2008. He was on his way to a Cincinnati Reds baseball game when he had a fall. Many famous basketball coaches and former players attended his memorial service to remember him.
As a special tribute for the 2009 season, the Wildcats did not hire a new equipment manager. They even left Bill's chair on the bench empty for the entire season.
