Friends of Basketball

Gene Alexander

Year Inducted: 1993

Category: Friends of Basketball

Schools / Organizations:

Lake Land College

Biography:

Gene Alexander of Mattoon was one of the first employees hired at Lake Land College in 1968.  He worked as the coordinator of student receords.  Gene volunteered to keep the time clock and scoreboard for Lake Land’s first basketball game.  Gene continued that practice for 25 years and never missed a Laker home game.  Through that association, Gene considered himself the #1 Laker basketball fan.  “Laker basketball is in my blood,” he said, “I’ve attended many out of town games over the years as well as cheering on the team at the National Tournament both times.”  At the end of the 1992 season, Gene was honored with a plaque and autographed ball for his 25 years of dedication and service to the Lake Land athletic program. 

During the time leading up to his induction, Gene served as eligibility chairman for varsity athletics at Lake Land.  He was responsible for ensuring the eligibility of the athletes and that they satisfied the rules of the NJCAA.  “It gave me the opportunity to become acquainted with all the coaches and athletes from season to season.” 

Gene Alexander died on February 3, 1995 at the age of 86.