Episode 26. Denny Crum – Former U of L Basketball Coach (1971-2001) & Radio Talk Show Host
For Denny Crum, competition is a way of life that influences everything he does.
Denny was the head basketball coach at the University of Louisville from 1971 – to 2001, compiling a 675–295 record. He guided the Cardinals to two NCAA championships (1980, 1986) and six Final Fours. He is considered one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history. In 1993, Denny became the second-fastest coach to reach 500 wins, and in 1994 he entered the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
Denny played basketball at UCLA under legendary coach John Wooden from 1956-58. After graduation, Denny coached for four years at Pierce College and was hired by Wooden as a top assistant coach. As a coach at UCLA, he played a role in three NCAA titles. He remained at UCLA until he departed for Louisville in 1971.
Denny remained active after retirement serving in advisory roles at the University of Louisville, and co-hosted the “Joe B. and Denny Show” on local talk radio. In addition, Denny founded The Denny Crum Scholarship Foundation, Inc., which awards scholarships to individuals who have demonstrated leadership, community service, and academic achievement.