Allen County High School
1963-1967
From 1963 through 1967 Jim McDaniels played high school basketball for the Allen County Patriots. With little background or experience in the sport, Jim developed quickly under the guidance of friends and coaches. By the end of his high school years, the 7-foot center had scored over 3,000 points and pulled down over 2,000 rebounds – 1 of only 4 players ever in the state’s history to do it.
During his senior season in 1967, Jim averaged an astounding 38 points and 25 rebounds per game while leading his team to a trip to the State Tournament.
Named as Kentucky’s “Mr. Basketball” in 1967, Jim McDaniels teamed with other future “Hilltopper” teammates to defeat the “Indiana All-Stars” in Louisville.
In this game, Jim completely dominated with 42 points – something he frequently did in “Freedom Hall.”
In 1967 he was named as an “All-American” and followed with a brilliant career at Western Kentucky and the Pros.