Last summer, I posted on the story of a young little leaguer who was snubbed because he was TOO GOOD. Well, maybe he can take a lesson from Ken Mink who at 73 years young is the oldest living college basketball player. Mr. Mink is a 6′ shooting guard for Roane State Community College. At first when he initially tried out for the team the other players, coaches, everyone involved though it was some kind of hoax and the man just escaped an insane asylum. However, there is more to the tale.
In his earlier days after a successful Freshman season (1955-56), Mink was excused from Lees Junior College in Jackson, KY. He was called to the President’s Office and was expelled from the institution for soaping the basketball coach’s office and putting shaving cream in his shoes… although Mr. Mink denies it more than 50 years later. No due process in those days so the youngster had no recourse but to go home, but was never far from the courts (basketball).
Along with Ken is his wife of 11 years, Emilia (68), who can be seen at every game wearing a retro- cheerleading outfit of poodle skirt, sweater, saddle shoes, and pom-poms.
You can watch Ken Mink in action here… number 54. Although he is eligible for three more seasons, the athlete feels that one will be enough. Way to go!!!
Clearly still in shape to be playing among those who could be his grandchildren!