Legendary college basketball coach who led Oklahoma City University to two NCAA championships and was known for his folksy, humorous personality.
Abe Lemons, a renowned American college basketball player and coach, left an indelible mark on the sport with his remarkable career spanning over three decades. He is best known for his impressive coaching record, which stands at 594-343 in 34 seasons, and his tenures at Oklahoma City University, Pan American University, and the University of Texas at Austin.
Lemons was born on November 21, 1922, in Ryan, Oklahoma, and grew up in Walters, Oklahoma. He graduated from Walters High School in 1941 and earned a basketball scholarship to play for Southwestern Oklahoma Teachers College (now Southwestern Oklahoma State University).
After the United States entered World War II, Lemons joined the Merchant Marine and served in the Pacific. This experience would later influence his perspective on sports, allowing him to keep things in perspective.
Following the war, Lemons enrolled at Hardin College, where he played for the Indians under coach Fermon Red Rutledge. He then transferred to Oklahoma City University (OCU) in 1947, playing two years for coach Doyle Parrack.
Lemons began his coaching career at OCU in 1955, a tenure that would last until 1973. During this period, the team achieved a record of 309-181, with two NIT appearances and seven NCAA tournament appearances (1956, 1957, 1963-1966, and 1973). The highlight of this period was winning the All-College Tournament in 1965.
From 1973 to 1976, Lemons coached at Pan American University, where he was named the 1974-1975 Texas Coach of the Year.
Lemons concluded his coaching career at the University of Texas at Austin, where he served from 1976 to 1982.
Abe Lemons' remarkable coaching career, which spanned over three decades, has left a lasting impact on college basketball. His impressive record, combined with his ability to develop top talent, has cemented his place as one of the greatest coaches in the sport's history.
Lemons passed away on September 2, 2002, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of basketball players and coaches.
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