In the cultural history of Lexington, Kentucky, there was an iconic school that left an indelible mark on the local landscape. Old Dunbar High School, founded in 1923, was a segregated school in the heart of Lexington until 1957. However, this issue never seemed to interfere with the school’s evolution. The essence of a community is its people and at Dunbar High School this became their focal point. The exuberance with which the community supported its school was extraordinary exhibited by the connection formed with the basketball team.
The Dunbar “Bearcat” basketball program became a state powerhouse under legendary Hall of Fame Coach S.T. Roach. When the Bearcats played, an atmosphere created by the symbiotic relationship of team, cheerleaders, band and most importantly fan support was like no other. It was as if the heart and soul of the community was on display. The “Dunbar Nation” was born and became one with the school and team that represented them. “Bearcat” basketball not only created school spirit but a community spirit that was contagious.
The Kentucky High School Basketball Hall of Fame (KHSBHF) is honored to recognize this historical, cultural phenomenon with a Heritage Game between the Old Lexington Dunbar Bearcats (now Paul Laurence Dunbar High School) and the Louisville Central High School Yellow Jackets at the Old Dunbar Gymnasium. The gymnasium will be honored with the prestigious KHSBHF “Glory Road” award which recognizes historical Kentucky gymnasiums.
We welcome basketball fans to be a part of this event on Saturday, January 14, 2023, at 2:00 P.M. at the Old Dunbar Bearcat Gymnasium located at 545 N. Upper Street, Lexington, KY 40508. Limited tickets are on sale online at
Expect an afternoon filled with exciting basketball, nostalgia, community togetherness all recreating Lexington cultural history.
The event is sponsored by COMMUNITY TRUST BANK.