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Dana Kirk Dies In Memphis

Dana Kirk was known as “The Suit” when he served as an assistant basketball coach under Denny Crum at the University of Louisville. He was quite a spectacle on the sidelines, often attired in duds one would expect of a carnival barker.

Think of a burley 6-foot-8 dude dressed in bold outfits, checkerboard patterns or with broad stripes. Kirk was quite a sight on the sidelines at Freedom Hall, with his wardrobe choices endearing him to U of L fans.

His popularity in Louisville quickly subsided, however, after he became head coach at rival Memphis State in 1979. He also dressed more conservatively at his new job.

Kirk, 74, died Monday night in Memphis where he coached for seven seasons, compiling a 158-58 won-lost record. He had five straight 20-win seasons including 31-4 in the Tigers’ Final Four year and 28-6 in his last season. He was fired after his team was placed on probation by the NCAA for recruiting violations. He was later found guilty of income tax violations.

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