Billy Kennedy (2020) - Hall of Fame - Murray State University Athletics

Billy Kennedy

Induction:
2020

Coach Billy Kennedy - Basketball (2005-11)

One of only four coaches to lead the Racers to victory in the NCAA Tournament, Kennedy led the Racers for five seasons from 2006-11.
Was architect that rebuilt the Racers' roster and had a winning season in 2006-07.
By the time the 2009-10 season rolled around, Kennedy had a team that was built for being a champion.
MSU won the 2009-10 OVC regular season title with a school-record 17 wins, had a school record 17-game winning streak and a 31-2 record.
Part only 10 teams nationally that won 30 games.
Upset Vanderbilt in the 2010 NCAA Tournament on a last second shot by Danero Thomas, MSU had the first 30-win season in OVC history and the Racers' first NCAA Tournament win 22 years.
In 2010-11, MSU won 23 games and claimed their second straight OVC regular season championship with Kennedy earning OVC Coach of the Year award for a second consecutive season.
From 2009 to 2011, Racers won 23 straight OVC games.
Kennedy's stable included MSU hall of famer, Isaiah Canaan, OVC Freshman of the Year in 2010 and two-time OVC Player of the Year.
All-OVC performers included Bruce Carter, Danero Thomas, Isacc Miles, Ivan Aska and Tony Easley, among the many others that won 107 games in five seasons.
Kennedy's all-time record of 107-53 (.656) included a 54-14 (.794) record in his final two seasons. His teams won two OVC regular season title while posting a 70-24 (.744) record in the OVC.
Was honored in 2011 by Fellowship of Christian Athletes with the John Lotz "Barnabas" Award. At the time, Kennedy joined other coaches who were honored including Homer Drew, John Wooden and Steve Alford.
Kennedy is the fifth men's basketball coach and the 22nd overall coach to be inducted into the MSU Hall of Fame.