Jacksonville State University Athletics

W. Shag Richey and the 1952-53 basketball team will always be remembered by Jacksonville State University for their memorable 67-64 upset over the famed University of Alabama “Rocket Eight” team that last won the SEC and defeated Kentucky for the first time. Richey, who enjoyed an outstanding career in education as a coach and administrator, was team captain in both 1951-52 and 1952-53. His 14.5 scoring average in 1951-52 was tops on a team that posted a 17-7 record. He was a star basketball player at DeKalb High School in Ft. Payne and Snead Junior College before signing with Jacksonville State. Richey retired in 1983.