Louisville to Unveil Bronze Statue of Hall of Famer Darrell Griffith Outside KFC Yum! Center
In a tribute decades in the making, the University of Louisville has announced that a bronze sculpture of Hall of Famer Darrell Griffith will be unveiled outside the KFC Yum! Center, honoring the legendary Cardinal whose name is etched into the very foundation of Louisville basketball.
The statue will depict Griffith in the iconic Louisville jersey he wore during the 1980 NCAA Championship game against UCLA, the night he led the Cardinals to their first national title and etched his place in college basketball history.
A Hometown Hero Immortalized
Nicknamed “Dr. Dunkenstein” for his electrifying dunks and smooth scoring ability, Darrell Griffith is more than a college basketball legend—he’s a Louisville icon. A native of the city, Griffith turned down offers from other elite programs to stay home and play for the Cardinals. His decision changed the trajectory of Louisville basketball forever.
On March 24, 1980, in front of a packed arena and millions watching across the country, Griffith delivered a championship performance, scoring 23 points and leading Louisville to a 59–54 win over UCLA. That victory not only gave the program its first NCAA title but also fulfilled the promise Griffith made to the city—to bring home a championship.
Honoring a Legacy
The bronze statue will be placed outside the main entrance of the KFC Yum! Center, home of Louisville basketball since 2010. University officials say the unveiling ceremony will be held this fall, and will include appearances by former teammates, coaches, and members of Griffith’s family.
University of Louisville Athletic Director Josh Heird said in a statement:
“Darrell Griffith is the embodiment of what it means to be a Cardinal. He stayed home, made history, and inspired generations. This statue is a permanent reminder of the greatness he brought to this city and this program.”
More Than Just a Basketball Star
Griffith’s legacy extends well beyond the court. After a successful NBA career with the Utah Jazz, he remained involved in community outreach and youth mentorship in Louisville. His impact on the city and the university continues to be felt to this day.
Fans and alumni have long called for a permanent tribute to Griffith, and the statue represents the culmination of years of admiration and gratitude. His jersey, already retired by the program, will now be accompanied by a sculpture that future generations of Cardinals can see and be inspired by.
Final Word
For Louisville basketball, the name Darrell Griffith isn’t just part of history—it’s the heart of it. And now, outside the KFC Yum! Center, that legacy will be cast in bronze for all to see.
