LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — The headline for this compilation could well have been: Kenny Klein had more friends than the rest of us put together.
How else do you explain what happened Thursday? Within minutes of news of the longtime University of Louisville sports information director's death, tributes poured in from every corner of college athletics — from Hall of Fame coaches and national broadcasters to former players, rival reporters and fellow sports information directors, many saying essentially the same thing: Kenny Klein was the best they'd ever known.
New York Post columnist Mike Vaccarro called him "one of the great gentlemen of sports." Mike DeCourcy called him, "the MJ, the TB12, the Messi." Vinny Tatum called him, "A first-ballot Hall of Famer in the game of life." David Worlock, longtime media director of March Madness, simply called him "the best of the best." To Doug Davenport, Klein was "the soul of U of L athletics." To U of L's Lottie Stockwell, he was "the encyclopedia of everything."
Below is a sampling. It is far from exhaustive. This collection will continue to grow.
It begins with a lengthy statement from the University of Louisville, which called Klein, "one of the most treasured figures in the history of Louisville athletics."
"For almost 40 years, Kenny gave himself completely to this University, to our student-athletes, our coaches, our staff, and our fans," the university said. "He was the keeper of our stories, the guardian of our history, and the steady, smiling presence that made everyone around him feel seen and valued. There was no one who loved Louisville more, and Louisville loved him right back."
"But Kenny's legacy extended far beyond the walls of Louisville Athletics. He was revered nationally as one of the best sports information directors in the industry, a true master of his craft who earned the respect and admiration of peers, media, and colleagues across the nation. His Hall of Fame recognition was well deserved, but those who knew Kenny understood that his greatest distinction was never a title or an award. It was the man he was every single day."
"Kenny Klein was kind. He was generous. He was humble. He made everyone from the newest student manager to the most seasoned sportswriter feel like they mattered. He answered every call, remembered every name, and approached every interaction with grace and genuine warmth. In a profession that demands so much, Kenny never lost sight of what mattered most: people."
That was only the beginning. Read more below.
ST. JOHN’S UNIVERSITY
Kenny Klein was one of the most decorated, respected and adored individuals in the field of college athletics.
Klein, who spent four decades leading Louisville's sports information department before retiring in 2022, came to St. John's in January of 2025 to assist his longtime friend, Rick Pitino, for what was scheduled to be just a few short weeks. Instead, Klein stayed on for two seasons, winning a pair of BIG EAST Championships while helping to reshape the culture of an entire athletic department.
UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY ATHLETICS
We are deeply saddened by the loss of long-time Louisville sports information director Kenny Klein. We had a great working relationship, and as a consummate professional, Kenny always represented his institution well and embraced the rivalry while keeping the competition between the white lines. Our condolences are with his family, friends, and the countless athletes, coaches, administrators and media who benefited from his presence.
RICK PITINO, St. John’s basketball coach, former Louisville coach
Kenny Klein is the most selfless person I’ve met in my lifetime. His humility and talents were great attributes I admired so much. My heart breaks with the loss of such a great friend and person. My love is with Donna and the Klein family during this very difficult time RIP Kenny. The Pitinos love you so much.
TOM JURICH, Former Louisville athletic director
Kenny Klein with Tom Jurich at the ceremony naming a portion of Floyd Street after Jurich in June of 2025.
Kenny Klein was one of the most trusted and valued members of our athletics department. His loyalty, professionalism and tireless commitment to the University of Louisville helped shape the success of our programs for decades. Kenny never sought recognition for himself; he simply made everyone around him better. His impact on Louisville Athletics is immeasurable, and I will always be grateful for his friendship, incredible loyalty, counsel and unwavering dedication.
BILL OLSEN, former Louisville athletics director
Kenny cared about others and the example he set had a positive influence on our staff. It never mattered who you were, Kenny had time for you and he would help you in anyway possible. He truly lived by the golden rule treating others as he would want to be treated.
Here’s just a few examples that made him special. He was smart, well organized, hardworking, passionate, positive, thoughtful, kind, encouraging, enthusiastic, loyal, funny and had a great sense of humor.
I am so thankful that Don Russell recommended him to me when he was 23 years old and for the experience that he had working for Doug Vance at Murray and Don at Morehead.
He always represented us with class and brought great respect for U of L
The great tributes that he is receiving say it all.
Kenny was a great SID and even better human being.
Sharon and I send our condolences and deepest sympathy to Donna, Alex, Brady and the Klein family and friends.
JOSH HEIRD, Louisville athletics director
In this profession, there are moments that test people — moments filled with pressure, heartbreak, controversy and change. Time and time again, I watched Kenny navigate those moments with a steadiness and grace that I have never seen replicated. He treated people with respect, never made anyone feel small, and had a remarkable ability to bring calm to even the most difficult situations. Then when the storm ended, Kenny remained trusted, respected and beloved- from all sides.
I’ve tried to learn from it because it is much harder than it looks. Kenny made it seem effortless. What Kenny built at Louisville over four decades was far more than a career, it was a standard. A standard for how to treat people, how to represent an institution with integrity, and how to love this work without ever losing sight of what matters most. We will miss him dearly. We’ll miss his voice, his laugh and especially his signature grin. We are forever grateful for the example he set for all of us.
ANDY BESHEAR, Governor of Kentucky
Today, sadly, we are saying goodbye to Kenny Klein. For decades, Kenny served UofL Athletics with pride and helped shaped the program and the university. He made an undeniable difference and will be missed. Britainy and I are praying for his family.
JEFF BROHM, Louisville football coach
Louisville has lost a friend and a legend, and we are heartbroken. Kenny Klein was the embodiment of the growth of Louisville athletics over these past decades, as his impact goes back to before I was even a player here. He was an advisor, confidant, spokesperson, and strategist for so many coaches, and his combination of expertise and good humor made him the gold standard in the media relations profession. God bless Kenny, and our condolences go out to his family and many friends.
KATHY TRONZO, Athletics administrative assistant, and one of the people who welcomed Klein when he arrived at Louisville
For more than 40 years, Kenny Klein wasn’t just my boss—he was my confidant, mentor, and one of my closest friends. His loyalty to the people around him was unmatched, and he always made those of us who worked with him feel valued and appreciated. I was fortunate to stand beside him through countless seasons, milestones, and challenges, and I will forever be grateful for his trust, friendship, and unwavering support on and off the court, especially to my family. The impact Kenny had on my life and career is immeasurable, and his legacy will live on in all of us who were privileged to know him.
NANCY WORLEY, former Louisville associate sports information director, Klein's first hire at Louisville
I met Kenny in 1981 on the dance floor of the Sports Information Director’s Convention and despite that, I thought it would be a good idea to accept a job offer from him two years later. It wasn’t just a good idea, it was a great idea that changed my life. Fast forward 40 plus years and I stand by my decision. He became more than a boss, he became equal parts mentor, guardian, teacher and annoying older brother. The standards he set and his work ethic were epically high, and we all got better because of that. He worked hard and played hard and earned every kudos ever bestowed upon him. I will miss him forever.
ROCCO GASPARRO, Sugar Bowl communications director, former Louisville football sports information director
Kenny Klein’s impact on my life and career is impossible to measure. He gave me an opportunity at Louisville, believed in my work ethic, and taught me what it means to be a professional. For more than two decades, he was not only a mentor but he was my friend who always put others before himself. The lessons he taught me about integrity, loyalty, and treating people the right way will stay with me forever. I would not be where I am today without Kenny, and I will always be grateful for his guidance, support, and friendship.
JEFF WALZ, Louisville women's basketball coach
Kenny Klein was one of the first people that helped me befriend the Louisville media 20yrs ago. Kenny has always been someone I could ask any question to and he was always willing to help. He was not only a colleague, but a friend. Kenny will be dearly missed by me, and so many others. He was a friend to all. My heart goes out to Donna and his entire family. My family will continue to pray for them and ask God to give them strength and peace through this difficult time.
PAT KELSEY, Louisville basketball coach
Kenny Klein’s impact and legacy around our program will be felt forever. Although I never had the honor of working with him, I learned quickly how beloved and respected he was. He is a legend in college athletics and set the standard for SIDs and administrators around the country. We know how much he loved his Louisville Cardinals and how much our community and city loved him back. My prayers are with Donna, his sons Alex and Brady, and the rest of his family and friends.
DAVID PADGETT, former Louisville interim coach, and player
We are all absolutely heartbroken over the tragic loss of Kenny Klein. For decades, he was invaluable to his beloved University of Louisville and the men’s basketball program. He was the epitome of being a true professional, but above all, he was the epitome of being a great person and loyal friend. The unforgettable memories of the incredible moments we shared together will stay with me forever. He will truly be missed by all that had the opportunity to meet him and work alongside him. Our deepest condolences go out to Donna, Alex, Brady and their entire family. Fins up, KK.
KENNY PAYNE, Former Louisville coach and player
There are no words to express the magnitude of what Kenny Klein means to Louisville Athletics and the basketball community as a whole. God gave me the pleasure and joy of having him and Donna in my life, both as a kid and as an adult. My family and I will miss our friend deeply, and we pray that all who knew him never let him leave our minds and hearts. We lost a great human being!
CHRIS MACK, Former Louisville men’s basketball coach
I am beyond saddened that the world has lost Kenny Klein. My family and I had been praying daily for a different outcome. Kenny was so genuine and held such a unique excitement for other people’s successes. I’m heartbroken for his wife, Donna, sons Alex and Brady, their family, and all the friends and colleagues whose lives Kenny touched. My family and I will be praying for peace and understanding through their unimaginable loss.
MIKE PEGUES, Former Louisville interim basketball coach
I’m deeply saddened by the passing of my friend Kenny Klein. He was not only the best SID in college athletics but an incredible person. The truth is when I became an interim head coach at Louisville, it was needless to say a very rough time for me, but Kenny being the class act that he was literally put his arm around me and walked me step by step through the process. He was an unbelievable confidant and friend to me during a very stressful time both in my professional and personal life and I’ll never forget his support and generosity. Thank you, Kenny. I love you.
VINCE TYRA, Former Louisville athletic director
Kenny’s unexpected passing is a tremendous loss for his family, his countless friends, and everyone fortunate enough to know him personally or professionally. It would be hard to find a more loyal and passionate supporter of the University of Louisville, its basketball program, and the people who made it special. Many of Kenny’s closest relationships were built within that circle, and I know those relationships meant the world to him. My heart is with his wife, Donna, and sons Alex and Brady, who meant everything to Kenny.
KIM PEMBERTON, former women's basketball sports information director
Some people come into your life and leave a mark that lasts forever, and Kenny Klein was one of those people for me. He had an incredible impact on both my career and my life. He believed in my abilities, challenged me to grow, and served as a mentor who helped shape the professional I am today. It was an honor to work for and alongside him during my 22 years at Louisville, but what I cherish most is that he and his family became like family to me and for that I will be forever grateful.
IRA GREEN, Former women’s basketball sports information director
Heartbroken. So many stories to share, so many lessons learned, so many experiences - all because of one of the greatest friends and influences I’ll ever have. Love ya, Kenny Klein.
PEYTON SIVA, Louisville basketball assistant, former Louisville player
I love Kenny. I’ve known him for 17 years, and he has always been great to me. Even after I graduated, Kenny would call just to check in, ask about my dad, or keep me updated on Coach P. That was who he was—someone who genuinely cared about people and made the effort to stay connected. Kenny had a great laugh and an incredible personality.
In all the years I knew him, I never saw him upset. Even after tough losses, when Coach P would be beside himself, Kenny always kept his cool and remained level-headed. I think that’s one of the reasons Coach P wanted him by his side wherever he went. Kenny was one of the nicest and most professional people he knew.
One of my favorite memories from college was when Kenny would have us do interviews before practice, and they would occasionally run a little long. We’d walk into film after it had already started, and Coach P would immediately ask, “Why the hell are you late?” Before we could say a word, Kenny would stick his head in the door with that smile and say, “My fault, Coach.”
Coach P would fire back with a few choice words, and Kenny would simply say, “Okay, I got you,” and go right on about his day. That was Kenny—calm, steady, and never rattled. I’m going to miss those random texts congratulating me on a milestone in my life or asking me to record a video congratulating someone else on theirs. He always celebrated others and made people feel valued. Kenny was truly one of a kind. I’m grateful for the friendship, the memories, and the impact he had on my life. I’ll miss him dearly.
DONOVAN MITCHELL, former Louisville player
I'm devastated to hear what happened to Kenny. My prayers are with his family, the Louisville community, his friends and everybody who knew him. He was such a great guy. He took me in as a freshman and really just kind of showed me the ropes and showed me how to handle media, how to handle people, how to handle myself, and how to be a professional. He was more than that. He was everywhere.
I remember diving into him in the crowd for a loose ball and he was the first person there to catch me. That describes who he was as a person. He was the true professional. A class act with a great family. My thoughts and prayers are with the Kleins — please know the Louisville community is behind you and we love you. To Kenny, rest in peace, my man. Thank you for everything you've done for me, the community - for everyone. We appreciate you. We love you forever. And as always, Go Cards.
VINNY TATUM, former Louisville equipment manager
So hard to live in a world without him. Kenny was so unique. His calming presence in the worst of times. The captain when the waters were rough. His mischievous pranks ... his love for Jimmy Buffett, his extreme loyalty to friends.
I had lunch with him the day of the incident. I told him I loved him as we left and he reciprocated..
I was blessed with the goodbye he deserved and I needed. Prayers and love to Donna, Brady, and his entire family.
Louisville weeps today.
On a personal note, this is a huge loss for me. Kenny was very much a mentor, resource and friend through many challenging episodes at UofL. He will be greatly missed by me and all who were privileged to work with him.
JOHN FANTA, NBC Sports
If you were lucky enough to encounter Kenny Klein, you loved Kenny Klein. The kindest and most-genuine soul. And he was that way while working as hard as anybody in the college sports comms world. Heaven gained an extraordinary person. We love you Kenny. You were the best.
DICK VITALE, ESPN
So sad learning of the passing of Kenny Klein, one of the kindest people I have ever met in my years at ESPN.
SCOTT DAVENPORT, former Bellarmine coach, Louisville basketball assistant
Kenny impacted lives through his tremendous respect, selflessness and commitment to making others better! His thoughtfulness changed lives!
DOUG DAVENPORT, Bellarmine basketball coach, former Louisville assistant
Working at UofL was one of the great honors of my career, but working with Kenny Kool was one of the great joys of my life. KK was the best at his job, yet somehow he was a better friend. We’ve lost the soul of U of L Athletics, and a lot of us lost a dear friend. Just devastating.
DAVID WORLOCK, NCAA director of media coordination/statistics, Media Coordinator for March Madness
Kenny made everyone feel like you were his best friend. He was the best of the best, as a professional and more importantly as a person. Like countless others, I will miss my friend. The Final Four won't be the same without him.
ZACH GREENWELL, LSU deputy athletic director, chief strategy officer, former Louisville and WKU SID
When I was a kid, I wanted to be Kenny Klein. … Most know I had the honor of taking the reins from Kenny at Louisville and working alongside him for a while after his retirement, but many don’t realize my relationship with Kenny started when I was a teenager. I had reached out to him for connection and advice, and like he did for so many, he treated me with the utmost respect – like I was the most important person in the room. I never forgot that. …
Imagine what it meant to me, a boy from Meade County who dreamt of one day doing what Kenny did, to *actually* have the opportunity to be the one who took over for him as Louisville's SID. I can't put into words what that meant to me and my family. What I learned after taking the job was that it also meant something to Kenny to have someone succeed him that would show the same care, attention to detail and deep love for the University of Louisville as him. Matching him in that regard was the best way I knew to show him love and gratitude. …
However, the best gift of all was getting to really know Kenny the person - the friend, the husband, the father, the sibling, the mentor, the dancer, the storyteller, the life of the party. Undeniable charisma and the best at bringing people together to have a good time. For every time he made me cry laughing in a hotel bar with a story about a prank he pulled on a road trip, he was also there with a hand on my shoulder to tell me better days were ahead. It's not a coincidence that everyone has good things to say about him, and that everyone has their story. Kenny made everyone feel special.
I'm heartbroken for Kenny's family and all of his loved ones who felt that special connection with him like I did. Someone with that much joy for life deserved so much more time to live it to the fullest. Being 12 hours away through his fight has made this surreal and hard to accept. I don't really know what else to say, except that I'm deeply grateful that he's been an integral part of my life well before he ever knew he was. I will honor him by trying to live out the best lessons he taught me - be prepared, work hard, treat everyone with the same level of respect, and find the joy through the good and the bad. Kenny, I appreciate you more than I ever got to say, but I hope you know your impact is everywhere. Thank you for making all of us feel special.
CRAIG GREENBERG, Louisville mayor
For decades, Kenny Klein was the man behind the scenes for some of Louisville’s greatest sports moments. However, what I’ll remember most is the way he treated people. Kenny was kind, genuine and a friend to all.
Kenny’s legacy will be forever woven into the history of the Cardinals and it will live on just as powerfully in the countless lives he touched.
Rachel and I are keeping his family, friends and the entire U of L community in our thoughts. May his memory be a blessing.
MICHAEL DECOURCY, Big Ten Network, former Sporting News columnist
In 45 years of covering sports, I’ve dealt with so many wonderful publicists with pro teams, national teams and primarily college sports programs.
Kenny Klein was the MJ, the TB12, the Messi.
You know this, because I’m not the only one saying it.
JIM PHILLIPS, Atlantic Coast Conference commissioner
The ACC mourns the passing of Kenny Klein, a great friend and trusted colleague who was loved by all. He served the University of Louisville for nearly four decades and his reach extended far beyond any one school, sport and conference. Kenny was a tremendous ambassador of college athletics but more importantly, he was an incredible friend and family man. We send our deepest condolences to his wife Donna, sons Alex and Brady and their respective families as well as his countless friends and colleagues.
DAN WETZEL, ESPN Senior Writer
No one ever did the job better than Kenny Klein, but even a better person. Thoughts are with his family.
JOHN PAQUETTE, Former Big East Commissioner and CoSIDA president
KK was simply one of the best in the world of college athletic communications. He was universally respected and liked, a Hall of Famer on every level. Kenny was a model professional who was a close friend to so many of us, whether it be at Louisville, St. John's, the BIG EAST and beyond. We will miss him dearly.
MALCOLM MORAN, USBWA Executive Director, former USA Today columnist
When Kenny Klein received the Katha Quinn Award from the United State Basketball Writers Association in 2012, he was celebrated for his professionalism and kindness at the University of Louisville over a period that would extend to 39 years. When he was called to help out during the past two seasons as a special advisor at St. John's, Katha's campus, a new audience quickly learned to trust a presence that was both authoritative and understated. On every level, local, regional and national, USBWA members have been grateful for his counsel. We extend our condolences to his wife, Donna, his sons Alex and Brady, and his extended family.
Kenny Klein with assistant sports information director Rocco Gasparro on the Louisville campus in 2017.
DAN GAVITT, NCAA senior vice president of basketball
There has not been a more beloved and respected college basketball administrator than Kenny Klein. While Kenny was recognized as a leader at the University of Louisville for four decades, he also contributed to the NCAA as a veteran member of the media coordination team, overseeing the statistics operations at 40 Final Fours. Kenny was a treasured friend and valued colleague by everyone in the game that had the good fortune of knowing him. His genuine kindness, warm personality and fun-loving spirit will be dearly missed, especially within the college basketball community and at the Final Four. On behalf of the NCAA staff and basketball committee, we extend our deepest condolences to Kenny's family and friends.
BILL RAFTERY, CBS Sports
I really got to know Kenny through the BIG EAST days, the great run for Louisville and Rick Pitino. He was always so accommodating and worked with everybody, no matter what your position or who you represented. He went out of his way to paint a good picture of Louisville. His days recently with St. John's, for me, became special because I had more time with him, going to Rick's practices, chatting with him and reminiscing. Above all, every Final Four he was the coordinator for the statisticians and the network, and you never had to worry when he was in the house. He was more concerned about your work than you may have been. He was a gentleman, a class act and we're all going to miss him terribly. The impact he's had, particularly in the basketball world and the sports world, not only is it impactful, but his personality, the way he went about his business was so admirable. God bless him.
MIKE VACCARO, New York Post sports columnist
Kenny Klein was already an iconic SID during a long run at Louisville. These last few years he joined his old partner, Rick Pitino, and turned St. John’s games into models for how a big-time program does it in a big town. Godspeed to one of the great gentlemen of sports.
VAL ACKERMAN, Big East commissioner
For more than four decades, Kenny Klein selflessly served many — from members of the media to the countless numbers of student-athletes and coaches he guided — and left an indelible mark on those who knew him. During his time in the BIG EAST at Louisville and St. John's, he was a tireless worker, a leader, and a mentor to all who had the great fortune of working with him. We join in mourning his passing and send our deepest condolences to his wife Donna, his sons Alex and Brady, and everyone who were honored to call him a friend.
TIM BRANDO, FOX Sports commentator
Legendary Sports Information people were the most vital people that guys like us counted on to do our jobs calling ball. They’re almost always overworked, underpaid, and never appreciated by the schools. Great Coaches like Denny Crum at Louisville and Rick Pitino knew that, and after Kenny retired from Louisville, Pitino wasted no time bringing him to Gotham for the Red Storm’s Big East run the last two seasons. May God bless Kenny, his family and all those who loved him and will miss him.
MATT NORLANDER, Sports Illustrated
I don’t know if anyone in the massive interconnected world of college sports has been more beloved and respected than Kenny Klein. There are a lot of people in mourning. Gone decades too soon – after living an incredible life in service of others.
DAMION LEE, Former Louisville basketball player
One of the kindest souls I’ve ever been around. There’s not enough words that can be used to show our appreciation of your impact on all of us. 10 years ago and the jokes of a lifetime. I’m honored to call you a friend. We’ll miss you brother.
TIM SULLVIAN, Former Courier-Journal columnist
Amid triumphs and turmoil, Kenny Klein was the calm center of Louisville athletics. Thoroughly professional in the best and worst of times, he set a standard few in his field will approach. May his memory be a comfort to his family and many friends.
JEFF GREER, Former Louisville beat writer for The Courier-Journal
Kenny Klein’s passing is devastating. We’ve lost a world-class human being – an admired and cherished colleague, a humble, kind man with a great sense of humor. …
We’d often be the last two people in the media room at the Yum Center, working deep into the night. He’d be in his front corner seat, tapping away at game notes and responding to emails. I’d be in my back wall seat, our backs turned to each other, typing away. He never left until I did. As we’d pack up, we’d just talk about life. Kenny always offered little kernels of wisdom, little anecdotes that illustrated his immense joy for life. He absolutely loved his family and friends, and I admired how he’d find ways to balance a very demanding job with his personal life. My favorite Kenny was a Kenny who’d just come back to work after a trip to see Jimmy Buffett. He was a tad lighter on his feet, with a twinkle in his eye that confirmed he’d had an absolutely great time.
Everyone who was fortunate enough to know that Kenny loved him. He maintained that reputation for decades – in a really difficult profession to do that. Just two weeks ago, we made plans for a drink this fall in New York. How I would’ve cherished more of that wisdom, more of his joyful pops of laughter and jokes.
I am just one of the people who had the absolute pleasure of getting to know Kenny and to appreciate him for everything he was. We will miss him dearly.
KARL SCHMITT, retired CEO, Louisville Sports Commission, former director of Kentucky Derby media
RIP to a good man. We first crossed paths when I was the SID at The U in the 1980s. When I took over the media operations for the Kentucky Derby in 1989, we had a giant mess. As our team systematically addressed how to manage each area, we had no one to oversee the media interviews with celebrities, which had been a disaster. I called Kenny and asked for help, and of course he said yes.
Kenny asked how he should handle the interviews. I said, Dude, just make it work, which he did with flying colors. Years later Kenny thanked me for giving him such a cool gig. Pure Kenny -- helps you out of a bind, then says thanks for letting me help.
WES DURHAM, ACC Network
Last month in Philadelphia at the PGA Championship, in the media couldn’t believe he was there…but of course he was. He was helping out. Kenny Klein was THE STANDARD of Sports Information. What a tragic loss to family and friends. We’ll miss him so much, but never forget him.
ZACH OSTERMAN, Indianapolis Star sports reporter
This and the countless other heartfelt tributes pouring forth tonight are a measure of Kenny Klein as a person. There might not have been a more universally respected and beloved man in all of college basketball.
MATT JONES, Kentucky Sports Radio founder, author
RIP Kenny Klein A great SID and a better person. There was never a moment he was anything but a gentleman to me, no matter the situation. You will find no one who can say anything but love towards him Prayers to the UL, Derby, St John’s, NCAA and media community. The best.
JEFF GOODMAN, Field of 68
Gonna miss Kenny Klein so much. Hard to really explain the impact he had on so many but was just so genuine, always had a smile, always wanted to help. I was young and breaking into the industry and he was so helpful to me - and I was one of so many that he would take the time. I honestly can’t believe he’s gone. Prayers to his family, Rick Pitino, his other friends and everyone who got to know him. There will never, ever be another Kenny Klein. Gonna miss you, man - and I’ll have a beer for you tomorrow.
GARY PARRISH, CBS Sports
A lot of folks have typed a lot of kind words about Kenny Klein this week. You can trust they’re all true. He really was the best of the best. This is such a sad deal.
KELLY DICKEY, Louisville stats guru
Kenny Klein made my childhood dream come true. As a regular fan who loves UofL athletics and stats, he gave me unbelievable access to chase that passion. God bless Kenny and his family. I’m so lucky to have known him.
ADAM ZAGORIA, Forbes Sports, New York Times
Just heartbreaking news. Kenny was a pro’s pro and a prince among men. We’re all better for having known him. Deepest condolences to his family.
STEVE KIRKLAND, Assistant Athletics Director for Communications, University of New Mexico
Kenny Klein was the SID we all looked up to and I felt privileged to call him a friend. I know I’m just one of numerous SIDs he mentored over the years and our whole profession is hurting today. But I think the best way we an honor a legend is to thank him for all he did for us.
DAN WOLKEN, Yahoo! Sports senior writer
A very sad day, and an irreplaceable loss in Louisville.
STEVE KIRSCHNER, North Carolina sports information director
Hard to put into words the degree to which people across the sports world will miss Kenny Klein. One of the best ever. And even better guy than a legendary SID. It was an honor to call him a colleague and friend. His loss is devastating. Prayers to his family and friends.
TOM CREAN, ESPN, former Indiana and Marquette basketball coach
Kenny Klein was Louisville basketball. He represented Denny Crum. He represented Rick Pitino. He represented Media Directors, Media, countless players and basically anyone who touched College Basketball. That’s because he was the Caretaker for so many he loved. It was obvious. What a man!
JAMES "BOO" BREWER, former Louisville player
Rest easy, Kenny Klein, I’m going to miss you so much. Thanks for all you did for me and the Cards!
SYDNEY CURRY, former Louisville player
Sad to hear the news that my guy Kenny Klein has passed away, one of the purest guys to be around. Your impact on me and the world will not be forgotten.
SOCIETY OF PROFESSIONAL JOURNALISTS, Louisville chapter
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