Greg Douglas

Legacy of a Gentle Giant: The Story of Greg Douglas

Written by Erika Berrett

Early Life and High School Dominance

Gregory Kenneth Douglas was born on October 29, 1947, in Keokuk, Iowa, to Kenneth and Naomi Douglas. From an early age, Greg showed exceptional talent in basketball, which would later define his legacy. He attended Keokuk High School, where he distinguished himself as one of the greatest basketball players in the state's history. Greg led his team, the Keokuk High School Chiefs, to extraordinary seasons, including a third-place finish in the state tournament in 1965 and a sub-state finish in 1966. During his senior year, he averaged a remarkable 25 points and 18 rebounds per game and earned the title of All-American for two consecutive years.

College Career and Challenges

Greg's prowess on the court earned him a full basketball scholarship to the University of Kansas, a testament to his skill and potential. At Kansas, he played as a swing forward, contributing significantly to his team's journey to the semifinals of the NCAA Final Four basketball tournament in 1971. However, Greg's college career faced challenges, including periods of academic ineligibility that sidelined him during crucial times.

Personal Struggles and Professional Life

After college, Greg played semi-professional basketball in Europe, where he continued to showcase his talent on an international stage. Despite his professional successes, Greg struggled with drug and alcohol addiction, which began during his time at Kansas. These challenges led to chronic mental health issues, profoundly impacting his post-basketball life. He later returned to Keokuk, where he was employed by the City and dedicated part of his life to recovery and managing his health.

Community Impact and Memorialization

Greg Douglas was more than a basketball player; he was a beloved member of the Keokuk community. Known as "the gentle giant," his quiet, soft-spoken nature and remarkable sportsmanship left a lasting impression on his friends and teammates. In recognition of his impact, his classmates organized a fundraising effort to place a headstone with his image at his gravesite in Oakland Cemetery, ensuring that his legacy would not be forgotten.

Legacy

Greg Douglas passed away on April 23, 2005, but his story remains a poignant reminder of the complexities of athletic stardom and personal vulnerability. His contributions to basketball and his community, and his courageous battle with personal demons, paint the portrait of a man who was much more than his challenges. His life continues to inspire those who remember him, both on and off the court.

Sources:

1. Gregory Kenneth Douglas Obituary - [HoopsZone](https://www.hoopszone.net/Kansas/Kansas/Players/D/douglas-greg.htm)

2. "Classmates of former Keokuk High School basketball star seek picture to put on headstone" - Steve Dunn/Gate City Managing Editor

3. "Iowans at KU" - [HoopsZone](https://hoopszone.net/Kansas/Kansas/Other/iowans_at_ku.htm)

4. Personal accounts and articles published in the Des Moines Register and local Keokuk publications.