American · Owensboro, Kentucky · Born 9 December 1931Cliff Hagan was a dominant hook-shot scorer who helped lead Kentucky to the 1951 NCAA championship and a 25-0 season in 1954.
Clifford Oldham Hagan was born in Owensboro, Kentucky in 1931. He attended the University of Kentucky under the legendary coach Adolph Rupp and won the national championship in 1951. He was a two-time All-American. He averaged 19.2 points and 8.8 rebounds per game. His hook shot — which he could execute with either hand — was considered one of the most unstoppable individual scoring moves of his era. Rupp called him one of the five best players he ever coached. His Kentucky career was interrupted when the entire team was suspended for the 1952-53 season due to NCAA violations — Hagan sat out the year before returning for his senior season. St. Louis Hawks selected him in the 1953 NBA Draft. He won the NBA championship with the Hawks in 1958. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1978. His Kentucky career is part of the Rupp dynasty that won four national championships and defined the program as one of college basketball's most significant.
Star forward on Kentucky's 1951 NCAA championship team
How They Played
Hagan was known for his exceptional hook shot, which became his signature weapon throughout his career. At 6'4", he was an athletic forward who could score both inside and outside, combining finesse with physical play.
Lasting Impact
Hagan is remembered as one of Kentucky's greatest players and a key figure in the Hawks' only NBA championship.
Career Honours
- NCAA champion 1951
- undefeated 25-0 season 1954
- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame 1978
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Kentucky Wildcats | 1951–1954 | — |
American Athletes