February 26

Born in 1932, Johnny Kerr starred in the early NBA, playing for the Chicago Stags and Syracuse Nationals as an All-Star center. He made history as the first head coach of the Chicago Bulls, earning Coach of the Year honors in their inaugural season. After retiring from coaching, Kerr became a beloved sportscaster, providing commentary for the Bulls for over three decades. His distinctive voice and deep knowledge of the game endeared him to fans and earned him sports broadcasting awards. Kerr's lifelong dedication to basketball was honored with induction into the Illinois Basketball Hall of Fame.

Norm Van Lier (1947–2009) played ten seasons in the NBA, primarily with the Chicago Bulls, where he earned a reputation as a tenacious defender. He was a three-time NBA All-Defensive Team selection and known for his intense play and leadership on the court. After retiring as a player, Van Lier transitioned into coaching at the collegiate level before forging a successful career in broadcasting. As a sportscaster, he brought his firsthand experience and wit to radio and television audiences. His contributions to basketball have been celebrated by fans and players alike. Van Lier passed away in 2009, leaving a lasting legacy in the basketball community.

Born in 1928 in Alexandria, Virginia, Earl Lloyd made history in 1950 as the first African American to appear in an NBA game. He spent seven seasons in the league, winning an NBA championship with the Syracuse Nationals in 1955. After retiring as a player, Lloyd transitioned to coaching and became an assistant coach and then head coach at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2003 and honored by the NBA for his pioneering role. Throughout his career, Lloyd was celebrated for his leadership, skill, and commitment to mentoring younger players. His legacy endures as a trailblazer who helped integrate professional basketball.

Born in 1932 in Kirkland Lake, Ontario, Andy Bathgate joined the NHL with the New York Rangers in 1952 and quickly became known for his scoring touch. He led the league in assists in 1958 and was a Hart Trophy finalist three times. Bathgate won a Stanley Cup championship with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1964 and posted over 350 career goals. After retiring in 1972, he served as head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins and held various management and scouting roles. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1978 in recognition of his exceptional play and character. Bathgate's influence endured through his leadership and his mentorship of younger players.

Born in 1933 in Westlock, Alberta, Don Getty played quarterback for the Edmonton Eskimos and won two Grey Cup championships in the 1950s. After earning a law degree, he transitioned into politics and was first elected to the Alberta legislature in 1965. Getty served in various cabinet positions before becoming Premier of Alberta in 1985. His tenure focused on managing the province's energy resources during periods of economic volatility. He resigned as premier in 1992 but remained active in public affairs and community service. Getty's dual legacy in sports and politics made him a respected figure in Alberta for decades.