One Step Away: Ohio County's 1969 Sweet 16 Journey —Show Notes

About the Guests:

• Everett Taylor and Don Hazelrigg are members of the Ohio County High School basketball team during the 1968-69 season. Everett Taylor was a senior starter and a double-figure scorer for the team, earning a place on the all-state tournament team. Don Hazelrigg, a crucial sixth man on the Ohio County roster, is recognized for his contributions during the team's impressive run to the Kentucky Boys Sweet 16 championship game. Both individuals possess a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience from their basketball careers, enriching the historical narrative of this notable Kentucky high school tournament.

Episode Summary:

This episode of Kentucky Sports Memories explores the fascinating history of the 1968-69 Ohio County High School boys' basketball team, known for their remarkable journey to the Kentucky Boys Sweet 16 state championship game. Despite ultimately being defeated by the formidable Louisville Central team, Everett Taylor and Don Hazelrigg recount their experiences and insights about that memorable season. Delve into the strategies and teamwork that propelled this undersized yet talented squad to significant success.

The conversation reveals the dedication of the Ohio County players from a young age, their relentless practice habits, and the cherished dream of state tournament glory that shaped their basketball journey. Everett Taylor and Don Hazelrigg provide valuable perspectives on that era of Kentucky high school basketball and the challenges faced by a small, yet determined team.

Key Takeaways:

• Small But Mighty: Despite being an undersized team, Ohio County High School's 1968-69 basketball squad achieved a 32-3 record, showcasing exceptional talent and perseverance.

• A Formidable Opponent: The 1969 Louisville Central team, led by Ron King, is often considered one of the best in Sweet 16 history, posing a formidable challenge for their opponents.

• Old vs. New: There is a notable contrast between the basketball culture of the past, with frequent outdoor play, and current times, influenced more by indoor entertainment.

Notable Quotes:

• "Well, our front line, Gary, was 6', 6'1" and 5'10"." - Everett Taylor

• "We just wanted our team to shoot because we had great shooters and we knew... percentage wise, if we took 70 shots and they took 70, we were going to beat them." - Everett Taylor

• "We grew up where from about the fifth grade on, you could drive through any subdivision that you wanted to, and the basketball courts would be full. I mean, we played ball every day." - Don Hazelrigg

• "We was no match for them [Louisville Central]... but we got to there anyway... I've been to a lot of state tournaments games since then, too, you know, but I don't know if we've seen a team as good as Louisville Central." - Don Hazelrigg

  
  

Join Gary Fogle as he continues to explore the stories behind the events and figures that have left a lasting mark on the world of sports in Kentucky.Listen to the full episode to gain deeper insights into a pivotal moment in Kentucky high school basketball history!

Listen Now