Kentucky has always been in Joe B. Hall’s “makeup.” Born in Cynthiana in 1928, Hall always had a dream to be involved with Kentucky basketball. His dream was realized in 1948, when he wore the UK jersey for half a season, before transferring to Sewanne for more playing time. “I had the opportunity to go onto the floor with Kentucky on my chest, come out of the portal in the old Alumni Gym, with the band playing ‘On On U of K,’” he said. “Kentucky was deep in my heart.” After his career as a player, Hall came back to UK first as an assistant coach and eventually as head coach. From leading the 1978 men’s basketball team to a national championship as head coach to stopping by his hometown’s local gym during his retired life and offering a few pointers to aspiring young players, Hall has ingrained himself into Kentucky history and basketball culture.

Reporting and photos By Michael Clubb | Copy by Bailey Vandiver