Great Performances: Jack Givens 1978

There have been many legendary performances by Kentucky Wildcats players throughout the history of Kentucky basketball. One of the greatest individual performances in Wildcat history occurred on March 27, 1978. The Kentucky Wildcats were taking on the Duke Blue Devils in the NCAA Championship game.

UK forward Jack "Goose" Givens was about to put the finishing touch on his All-American career at the University of Kentucky. The Wildcats entered the National Championship game after a win over Arkansas in the Final Four. The Wildcats were looking to capture their first National Championship in 20 years.

Once the game began, it was clear that something special was about to take place on the court that day. Givens came out on fire and started to score at will against the Blue Devils. Givens would go on to score 41 points against the Blue Devils, leading Kentucky to a 94-88 victory and their fifth NCAA National Championship. Givens was honored as the NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding player for the 1978 tournament. Givens' outstanding performance on the court in St. Louis that night continues to shine as one of the greatest and most important individual performance in the history of Kentucky Wildcats basketball.

In case you were too young to remember this game, or want to see these great moments again, here is a video with highlights from Givens' memorable performance.