Alex Groza

Alex Groza was the biggest star of the Kentucky teams of the late 40s. The 6-7 (2.00) forward certainly came from an athletic family as his older brother, Lou, became quite well known as a placekicker for the Cleveland Browns. After college Groza played for two seasons in the NBA with the Indianapolis Olympians, of which he was part-owner. He was an excellent player, making first-team All-league both years, and was twice runner-up for the scoring title to big George Mikan. He was also one of the league’s top rebounders. Groza later returned to his home state of Kentucky When the ABA was formed in the late 60s, Groza was instrumental in bringing a team to play in his home state, the Kentucky, Colonels. In 1970, as general manager, Alex Groza also took over the reins as an interim coach for two games and left undefeated – 2-0. In 1974 the call of coaching lured him back and he coached one-half of a season, with little success, for the San Diego Conquistadors of the ABA, succeeding Wilt Chamberlain.