RIP Joe Dean Sr

picture from Oscar Combs Outside of Kentucky basketball coaches/players, there aren't a lot of folks that come to mind when you mentions "Legends of SEC Basketball." Well while the list might be short, near the top is the name of an icon of SEC basketball who passed away yesterday, Joe Dean Sr. Joe Dean Sr was the former Athletic Director at LSU and made a huge impact at that university in its sports department. But he is best known outside of Baton Rouge as the first voice of the SEC on television. Along with broadcast partners like Tom Hammond, Dean called early SEC games in the 70s, 80s and 90s and was the voice of a generation for people who loved SEC basketball. His signature calls, including "STUFFARINO!" and "String Music in Lexington KY!" were repeated throughout the region and you knew a basketball game in the SEC was exciting if Joe Dean Sr was in town to call it. For me, the basketball of my youth has three signature voices...Cawood Leford, Dick Vitale and Joe Dean Sr. Hearing of his passing brought back a lot of great memories of my formative years as a UK fan. Below you will see a picture (from Oscar Combs) of Joe and Rex Champman and a video of Dean commenting on one of Kenny Sky Walker's great games. Check it out and get ready for some "STUFFARINO IN LEXINGTON K-Y!"