University of Kentucky basketball icon Jack “Goose” Givens will be in Owensboro today for a special book signing event hosted by the Daviess County UK Alumni Club.
The event will be held at the Hampton Inn Owensboro Downtown, beginning with a reception at 5 p.m., followed by a program at 5:30 p.m. and the book signing at 6:15 p.m.
Givens, who led the Wildcats to the 1978 NCAA Championship with a legendary 41-point performance in the title game, will be signing copies of his book, “They Call Me Goose: My Life in Kentucky Basketball and Beyond.” The book chronicles his journey from growing up in Lexington to his career with the UK men’s basketball program, the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks, and the Japan Basketball Association. It also highlights his work as a TV analyst and his current role as a commentator for the UK Sports Network.
“This is a great opportunity for fans to hear Jack share stories from his career and ask him questions about his time at UK and beyond,” said Jack Gallt, senior associate director of alumni engagement at the University of Kentucky. “He loves engaging with fans, taking photos, and signing memorabilia. People often bring old programs or newspaper clippings from the 1978 championship game.”
The event is open to the public, and there is no cost to attend. Light refreshments will be provided. Books will be available for purchase at the event for $38 (hardcover) and $29 (paperback), with pre-purchase options available.
Gallt said Givens’ visit to Owensboro is part of a series of book signings taking place across the state and region.
“We’ve been hosting these events over the past year, and they typically draw 40 to 50 people or more,” Gallt said. “It’s a great way to bring the community together and celebrate UK basketball while also giving fans a chance to interact with one of the program’s all-time greats.”
Givens, who earned his famous nickname as a child due to the way he ran, remains a beloved figure in Kentucky basketball history. His MVP performance in the 1978 championship game against Duke remains one of the most celebrated moments in UK history.
The event is being co-hosted by the Daviess County UK Alumni Club, with local club members Jeremy Edge, Mary Ann Smith Edge, and Jim Gillis helping coordinate the gathering.
