Cliff Hagan, Basketball Hall of Famer and University of Kentucky Legend, Dies at 94
Hagan's storied career included NCAA and NBA championships, five NBA All-Star selections, and a significant tenure as athletic director at his alma mater.
Cliff Hagan, a celebrated figure in basketball known for his NCAA and NBA championship titles and a distinguished career that extended into athletic administration, has died at the age of 94. His passing has prompted widespread tributes from the University of Kentucky, his alma mater, and across the sport.
Collegiate and Professional Achievements
Hagan was a key player for the University of Kentucky, contributing to coach Adolph Rupp's 1951 NCAA championship team. He earned All-American honors in subsequent seasons, though his college career was impacted by a point-shaving scandal that led to the forfeiture of his junior season. Despite this, he returned to Kentucky for his senior year before serving in the Air Force.
His professional career began after a notable trade that sent him and Ed Macauley from the Boston Celtics to the St. Louis Hawks for Bill Russell's draft rights. With the Hawks, Hagan was part of the team that won the franchise's only NBA title in 1958, defeating the rival Celtics. He and fellow Hall of Famer Bob Pettit were the last surviving players from that championship team; Pettit died just weeks before Hagan at age 93.
Hagan's playing career included five NBA All-Star selections and a stint with the Dallas Chaparrals in the American Basketball Association (ABA) before his final retirement in 1970. During his peak years, he averaged significant points and rebounds, earning a reputation for clutch playoff performances.
Administrative Role and Legacy
Following his playing career, Hagan transitioned into athletic administration at the University of Kentucky. He served as assistant athletic director before being promoted to athletic director in 1975, a position he held until 1988. During his tenure, he advocated for increased funding for women's sports. However, his administration was also marked by a recruiting scandal involving the men's basketball coach, which resulted in a postseason ban for the Wildcats.
Hagan's impact extended beyond the court and administrative offices. For years, Kentucky's baseball stadium bore his name, and a student section in the bleachers was known as 'The Cliff.' He is remembered by many for his kindness, compassion, and his elevated play in crucial games. He is survived by his wife, Martha, four children, and several grandchildren.
