Beware of the Phog: 50 Years of Allen FieldhouseIn the world of college basketball, few structures can match the aura of the massive limestone edifice situated on the University of Kansas campus known as Allen Fieldhouse. Dedicated 50 years ago on March 1, 1955, it marked the largest campus arena in the nation for a significant period of time. The inventor of the game of basketball, Dr. James Naismith, introduced to the campus both the sport and his most prized pupil, Forrest C. "Phog" Allen, in the early 1900s. It was Allen, who came to be known as the "Father of Basketball Coaching," that elevated the sport to practically a religion among the Jayhawk faithful. When it came time to build a new arena to satisfy the burgconing fan support, there was never any question that it would be named in honor of the man they called Phog. Beware of the Phog: 50 Years of Allen Fieldhouse chronicles the history of the facility that houses Kansas basketball. Readers will get unique insight into the epic battles that have occurred in this legendary building from the coaches, players, fans, media, officials, and administrators who lived those experiences. They will learn of the traditions, anecdotes, and unique qualities that make the facility more than just a place where games are played. If the classroom buildings are the heart of KU's campus, then "The House That Wilt Built" is its soul. It might be constructed of a mass of stone, metal and concrete, but there is a spirit that provides the constant reminder that the place is indeed special. The constant echo of the Rock Chalk Chant emanates from faraway recesses while the fresh buttery popcorn aroma flows from cubbyholes under the bleachers. Allen Fieldhouse is truly a place like no other. |
