It was a remarkable experience to delve into the life and career of Frank Kendrick. His connection with basketball, especially Purdue basketball, was truly something special. Just a mention of the sport would easily summon his charismatic charm.

Remembering Frank Kendrick - A Basketball Legend

Basketball and Frank Kendrick's Passion

Back in the 1970s, there was no doubt about Frank Kendrick's abilities. He averaged a double-double during the 1973 - 74 NIT championship team. Not only a scorer but a rebounding machine, he had an astonishing 28 double-doubles between 1972 - 74. This remarkable feat earned him All-America honors and first-team All-Big Ten as a senior. He scored a total of 1,269 points, which launched him into a short yet impactful NBA career. In 1975, he won an NBA championship ring with the Warriors. After that, he had a long stint as a professional basketball player in Europe. His skills and achievements on the court were widely recognized, making him a true icon.

Kendrick's Journey from College to Fame

The seventh of nine children, Kendrick achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first in his family to go to college and graduate. This was a promise made by former Purdue coach Bob King when recruiting him to West Lafayette. His time at Purdue was nothing short of extraordinary. He not only rehashed his passion for his playing days with the Boilermakers but also served as an assistant coach for Hall of Famer Gene Keady. Even in his later years, he was showered with cheers whenever the Boilermakers held an alumni game event. He always made it his mission to show the young guys that he still had game. His impact on Purdue basketball extended far beyond his playing days and continued to inspire generations.

Frank Kendrick's Hall of Fame Status

Kendrick is a proud member of the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame, a testament to his standout career at Arsenal Tech High School and his college career at Purdue. In 2016, he joined the Purdue athletics Hall of Fame, further solidifying his place in history. His contributions to the sport have left an indelible mark, and his story serves as an inspiration for aspiring basketball players. Sam King, who covers sports for the Journal & Courier, has been following Kendrick's journey and has shared his remarkable story with the world. Email him at sking@jconline.com and follow him on X and Instagram @samueltking to stay updated on more such inspiring tales.