Utah basketball great Kenny Gardner dies at age 74 [Video]

Kenneth Kay Gardner, one of Utah men’s basketball’s top all-time players, died last week. He was 74.

No cause of death was listed, but an obituary for the former Runnin’ Ute said he died at home, surrounded by family.

Gardner, an Odgen native who went by Kenny, played for the Runnin’ Utes from 1968-71 before getting drafted by the Phoenix Suns five years before the NBA-ABA merger. He ended up fifth all-time in rebound average (11.3) eighth in total rebounds (892) and 10th in scoring average (16.3 points).

“We mourn the passing of former Runnin’ Ute Kenny Gardner, and send our deepest condolences to the Gardner family and their loved ones,” the Utah basketball program posted on X.

An injury delayed his professional basketball career, but he eventually starred for the French team Berck Basket Club. He won French National Championships in 1973 and 1974, and was twice named the …