Some of the most powerful moments in sports happen after the final buzzer sounds. They are found in the stories we live and choose to share. Today, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the many Letterwinners in our community who have taken on the courageous task of authoring books.
From revealing memoirs that trace journeys through historic games and personal trials, to inspiring children’s books that plant seeds for the next generation, your contributions go far beyond the page. You have added invaluable chapters to the rich narrative of UK Athletics, offering lessons in resilience, leadership, and faith that resonate with fans and fellow members alike.
We encourage every member of the K Club to join us in supporting these authors. Consider purchasing their books for yourself or as gifts, leaving a positive review online, or sharing their work with your network. This direct support honors their legacy and inspires others to share their own stories.
Help Us Keep Our List Complete!
Our community is vast, and we strive to recognize every achievement. If you are a Letterwinner author or know of one whose book is not yet on our radar, please let us know. Your help ensures we can celebrate and support every member of our writing team.
🏆 Championship Legends
Stories from those who defined excellence in Kentucky blue.
Jack “Goose” Givens | They Call Me Goose: My Life in Kentucky Basketball and Beyond
Relive the magic of the 1978 NCAA Championship through the eyes of the man who made it happen. This intimate memoir takes readers from a Lexington housing project to that iconic 41-point game and through life beyond the spotlight, sharing heartfelt and candid stories of challenge, faith, and family.
“The powerful story of a husband, father, mentor, businessman, and ambassador for Kentucky―who also just happens to be an iconic sports legend.”
Get the Book
Derrick Ramsey | They Call Me “Mr. Secretary”
Follow the journey from a segregated childhood to becoming UK’s first Black starting quarterback, a Super Bowl champion, and a respected Kentucky statesman. Ramsey’s memoir is a masterclass in leadership, discussing the balance of athletics and academics, and the perseverance required to achieve dreams on and off the field.
“I wasn’t the smartest, the fastest or the strongest guy. But I never gave up… It sends a message to young people—this could be you. No dream is too big.”
Get the Book
🚧 Trailblazers & Pioneers
The stories of those who paved the way.
Nate Northington | Still Running: My Life as the First Black Football Player in the SEC
This is the powerful story of the man who broke the color barrier in SEC football. Northington recounts the immense pressure, the tragic loss of his friend and teammate Greg Page, and the relentless fight for equality that defined his pioneering journey.
“An honest and inspirational testament to a life defined by faith, strength, resilience, and determination.”
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💪 Stories of Resilience
Powerful memoirs of overcoming life’s greatest challenges.
Rex Chapman | It’s Hard for Me to Live With Me: A Memoir
In an unflinchingly honest memoir, “King Rex” reveals the devastating addiction to opioids and gambling that followed his NBA stardom. It’s a raw, riveting, and ultimately uplifting story of hitting rock bottom and climbing back through recovery and self-acceptance.
“An equally devastating and inspiring story about the human struggle for self-acceptance.”
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Oscar Tshiebwe | COURAGE IN THE DARK
In this upcoming memoir, Oscar shares his inspirational journey from hardship in the Congo to finding his purpose through faith and basketball. It is a testament to the courage that is forged in darkness and the unwavering belief that carries us forward.
“Courage is born not in comfort, but in the battle to keep moving forward.”
Find it on Amazon
📚 Inspiring the Next Generation
A gift for the young fans in your life.
Keyla Snowden | My Bible and My Basketball
UK Letterwinner Keyla Snowden creates a wonderful bridge between faith and sport for children. This interactive activity book features inspirational scriptures, coloring pages, and space for journaling, designed to encourage young athletes.
“The pages are ideal for children to learn what it means to be an athlete in Christ.”
Get the Book
📘 The Essential Guide for Student-Athletes and Parents
Jalen Whitlow | PREPARED: THE GUIDE TO A SUCCESSFUL COLLEGIATE EXPERIENCE For Athletes and Parents
Former UK quarterback Jalen Whitlow draws from his personal journey as a collegiate athlete to create this essential guidebook. Written to help student-athletes and their families navigate the unique challenges of college sports, the book offers practical advice on breaking traditional molds, attaining goals, being resourceful, and networking effectively to ensure a smoother transition into life after sports.