The college sports world is mourning the death of Kenny Klein, the legendary University of Louisville athletic communications director, who died on Thursday, June 25 at age 68.
Klein died after a “choking episode” that occurred at a Louisville restaurant two weeks ago, according to Louisville’s WDRB. The station reports family and friends stayed by his side throughout his stay in the hospital, but he never regained consciousness.
“For almost 40 years, Kenny gave himself completely to this University, to our student-athletes, our coaches, our staff, and our fans,” Louisville athletics wrote in a statement. “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.”
The statement continued, “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.”
Family and friends were able to say their goodbyes during Klein’s honor walk, after which he was able to donate his organs.
“Even at his last he is helping others,” his family said in a text to friends, per WDRB.
Klein retired from his role at Louisville in 2022, coming out of retirement a year later to join former Cardinals men’s basketball head coach Rick Pitino at St. John’s as a special advisor.
Pitino, 73, remembered Klein on Thursday with a post via X, showing the pair celebrating the Red Storm’s Big East Tournament title at Madison Square Garden in March.
“No words can describe how much I love this man,” the Hall of Fame coach wrote.
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Days before, Pitino thanked followers for their support as Klein remained in the hospital.
“Would like to thank so many people for their hopes and prayers regarding Kenny Klein,” he wrote. “We all love him so much and our hearts are totally broken. We will know a final outcome in the coming days. It’s really a difficult time but we will get through this together. His wife and children thank you so much for your concern.”
In addition to his work at Louisville and St. John’s, Klein also routinely helped the NCAA at the men’s basketball Final Four, one of the organization’s biggest events of the year. Dan Gavitt, NCAA senior vice president of basketball, released a statement recognizing Klein for working 40 Final Fours.
“His genuine kindness, warm personality and fun-loving spirit will be dearly missed, especially within the college basketball community and at the Final Four,” wrote Gavitt, 59. “On behalf of the NCAA staff and basketball committee, we extend our deepest condolences to Kenny’s family and friends.”
