They Call Me Goose: My Life in Kentucky Basketball and Beyond

When Jack Goose Givens first walked onto the basketball court at Lexington's Douglass Park for the legendary Dirt Bowl league, it was the beginning of one of the most illustrious sports careers in Kentucky history. He was named 1974's Mr. Basketball for the state of Kentucky and signed with the University of Kentucky, where he led them to the 1978 NCAA Men's National Championship. "They Call Me Goose: My Life in Kentucky Basketball and Beyond" is an intimate and all-encompassing look at his life and career, including his experiences with poverty, financial debt, sexual assault allegations, and his faith and family.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 03 May 2024
Publisher: The University Press of Kentucky

When Jack Goose Givens first stepped onto the basketball court at Lexington's Douglass Park for the legendary Dirt Bowl league, it marked the beginning of one of the most illustrious sports careers in Kentucky history. After being named 1974's Mr. Basketball for the state of Kentucky as a high school senior, Givens signed with the University of Kentucky and went on to accumulate a string of achievements that place him among the all-time greats in NCAA college basketball. Most notably, he led UK to the 1978 NCAA Men's National Championship with his 41-point performance against the Duke Blue Devils in that historic game, and he was named the Final Four Most Outstanding Player for that year.

They Call Me Goose: My Life in Kentucky Basketball and Beyond is an intimate and all-encompassing look at the life and career of the basketball legend, from growing up in a housing project in Lexington, his success with UK men's basketball through his years with NBA's Atlanta Hawks and the Japan Basketball Association, his career as a college and NBA television color analyst, to his recent appointment as a commentator for the UK Sports Network. Givens shares personal and endearing stories from his childhood, such as how he was initially interested in baseball instead of basketball, the summers spent with his grandmother in Danville, Kentucky, and the teachers and coaches who guided and supported him along his journey. He also speaks candidly about his experiences with poverty, ruinous financial debt, the blowback from sexual assault allegations, and how his faith and his family helped sustain him through hardships and challenges.

In collaboration with journalist Doug Brunk, Givens presents fans with the powerful story of a husband, father, mentor, businessman, and ambassador for Kentucky - who also just happens to be one of the greatest basketball players in history.

Givens' journey to basketball greatness began in Lexington, Kentucky, where he grew up in a housing project with his mother and three siblings. Despite the challenges of poverty and limited resources, he was determined to pursue his passion for the game. He honed his skills on the basketball court at Douglass Park and eventually caught the attention of local coaches and scouts.

Givens' talent and hard work paid off when he was named 1974's Mr. Basketball for the state of Kentucky. He was recruited by several top college basketball programs, but he chose to attend the University of Kentucky, where he had the opportunity to play under legendary coach Adolph Rupp.

At Kentucky, Givens quickly established himself as a star player. He led the Wildcats to two NCAA Final Four appearances and was named the NCAA College Player of the Year in 1976. His 41-point performance against the Duke Blue Devils in the 1978 NCAA Men's National Championship game is still considered one of the greatest performances in college basketball history.

After his college career, Givens played for the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA for three seasons. He also played for the Japan Basketball Association for two seasons, where he became a fan favorite and was known for his scoring and rebounding abilities.

In addition to his basketball career, Givens has been involved in various business ventures and community service projects. He has served as a mentor to young athletes and has been involved in several charitable organizations, including the Boys & Girls Club of America and the Special Olympics.

Givens' life and career are a testament to his determination, hard work, and perseverance. He has faced numerous challenges and setbacks throughout his life, but he has always remained focused on his goals and has never lost sight of his values and beliefs.

They Call Me Goose: My Life in Kentucky Basketball and Beyond is a captivating and inspiring book that provides a deep insight into the life and career of one of the greatest basketball players in history. Givens shares personal and heartfelt stories from his childhood, his time at Kentucky, and his professional career, and he offers valuable lessons and insights into the game of basketball and life in general.

Whether you are a basketball fan or just someone who enjoys reading about the lives of remarkable individuals, this book is a must-read. It is a powerful story of resilience, determination, and faith, and it will leave you feeling inspired and uplifted.

In conclusion, Jack Goose Givens' life and career in Kentucky basketball are a testament to his talent, hard work, and perseverance. His journey from a housing project in Lexington to the basketball court at Douglass Park and beyond is a story of resilience, determination, and faith. They Call Me Goose: My Life in Kentucky Basketball and Beyond is an intimate and all-encompassing look at the life and career of the basketball legend, from growing up in a housing project in Lexington, his success with UK men's basketball through his years with NBA's Atlanta Hawks and the Japan Basketball Association, his career as a college and NBA television color analyst, to his recent appointment as a commentator for the UK Sports Network. Givens shares personal and endearing stories from his childhood, such as how he was initially interested in baseball instead of basketball, the summers spent with his grandmother in Danville, Kentucky, and the teachers and coaches who guided and supported him along his journey. He also speaks candidly about his experiences with poverty, ruinous financial debt, the blowback from sexual assault allegations, and how his faith and his family helped sustain him through hardships and challenges. In collaboration with journalist Doug Brunk, Givens presents fans with the powerful story of a husband, father, mentor, businessman, and ambassador for Kentucky - who also just happens to be one of the greatest basketball players in history.

Weight: 400g
Dimension: 150 x 229 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813199375