Adding to their banners on the rafters in the Liacouras Center and names written across the court, Hall of Fame Coaches John Chaney and Harry Litwack received one more honor in the form of two larger-than-life statues in their memory.
Prior to the Owls game against Villanova, Coach Chaney and Litwack’s family and friends, as well as former players gathered to celebrate the unveiling in the lobby of the Liacouras Center.
Speeches were given by former players and colleagues of both coaches, as well as family of the late Harry Litwack.
“It’s a special day to be a Temple Owl,” alumni TUMBB player and former NBA player, Rick Brunson said. “You have no idea how much it means to his players to celebrate this day, and to have him here so we can celebrate it with him.”
Both 8-foot statues were creations of the official sculptor of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Brian Hanlon. Both statues were funded by private donations.
Coach Chaney left the audience with the quote he would tell his team, “There’s a difference between being a loser and losing, there’s a difference between being a failure and failing.”
Chaney and Litwack have been credited with putting Temple Mens Basketball on the map.
Combined, both coaches helped TUMBB win 889 games, with 36 postseason appearances, 7 Elite Eights, and 2 Final Fours along with one national championship in 1969.
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