American · Bloomfield, New Jersey · Born 16 February 1959Kelly Tripucka led Notre Dame in scoring all four seasons, finishing as the program's fourth all-time leading scorer with 1,719 points.
Kelly Joseph Tripucka was born in Bloomfield, New Jersey in 1959, the son of former NFL quarterback Frank Tripucka. He attended the University of Notre Dame and became the school's leading scorer across four seasons. He averaged 15.1 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. He was a two-time All-American. He led Notre Dame to multiple tournament appearances and was considered one of the finest scoring forwards in the Big East region. Detroit Pistons selected him 12th overall in the 1981 NBA Draft. His professional career produced two All-Star appearances — he averaged 26.5 points per game in 1981-82, one of the highest single-season averages for a Pistons player in history. He later moved to Utah Jazz and Charlotte Hornets. His Notre Dame career — four seasons of consistent excellence at one of college basketball's most demanding academic institutions — produced the complete player that his professional success confirmed. He became a broadcast analyst after his career.
Four-year starter and leading scorer at Notre Dame who helped the Irish to their only Final Four in 1978
How They Played
Tripucka was a skilled forward with excellent shooting range and scoring ability from multiple positions on the court. He possessed a smooth shooting stroke and was particularly effective from mid-range, while also showing the ability to drive to the basket. His versatility allowed him to play both forward positions effectively.
Lasting Impact
Tripucka remains one of Notre Dame's most celebrated basketball players and helped establish the program's reputation during a successful era in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Career Honours
- 2x consensus second-team All-American 1979, 1981
- led Notre Dame to NCAA Tournament all 4 years
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Notre Dame Fighting Irish | 1977–1981 | 120 |
American Athletes