12 Facts About Alex Groza

Alex John Groza was an American professional basketball player from Martins Ferry, Ohio.

Alex Groza grew up in Martins Ferry, Ohio and attended Martins Ferry High School.

Alex Groza was the brother of future Pro Football Hall-of-Famer Lou Groza.

Alex Groza was the captain and center of the "Fabulous Five" that won the 1948 and 1949 NCAA Men's Basketball Championships, as well as the leading scorer on the gold medal-winning 1948 US Olympic basketball team.

Alex Groza was three-time All-American and All-SEC, and two-time NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player.

Alex Groza was drafted in the 1st round of the 1949 BAA draft by the Indianapolis Jets.

In 1963, Alex Groza led the Knights to a Kentucky Intercolliegiate Athletic Conference title and was named KIAC coach of the year.

Alex Groza left Bellarmine in 1966 for a brief coaching and managerial career in the American Basketball Association.

Between 1971 and 1975, Alex Groza coached 40 games with the Kentucky Colonels and San Diego Conquistadors and held a number of front office positions, including becoming the Kentucky Colonels' business manager in 1969 and general manager of the San Diego Conquistadors in 1972.

Alex Groza was named general manager of the expansion Conquistadors on August 8,1972.

In 1975 Alex Groza became director of player development for the San Diego Sails of the ABA.

Alex Groza was survived by his wife of 42 years, Jean Groza, two sons, two daughters, and two grandchildren.