The space on Frederica Street between 17th and 20th streets will be named “The Home of Bobby Watson” after longtime coach and educator Bobby Watson on September 1, 2017, at 6 p.m. at the corner of 17th and Frederica Street.
District 13 Representative DJ Johnson came up with the idea to honor Watson after he heard about what Watson accomplished during his life. Watson passed away earlier this year.
“I was blown away by what Mr. Watson did as a student, player, teacher, coach, and businessman. I thought it was very fitting to name a space along Frederica street that plays home to Owensboro High School after such an amazing figure,” said Rep. DJ Johnson, 13th District.
An unveiling ceremony will take place before the Owensboro vs Owensboro Catholic football game Friday night. Speakers will include Representative Johnson, OHS principal John DeLacey, former OHS coach and player Randy Embry, and a member of the Watson family.
“It is such an honor to get to be a part of this special occasion. We’ve had many great people come through Owensboro Public Schools. Coach Watson is among the best,” said John DeLacey, OHS principal.
Watson graduated from Owensboro High School in 1948. He was an educator, coach, businessman and Air Force veteran. Watson graduated from the University of Kentucky where he was basketball team captain for two years and played professional basketball with the Minneapolis Lakers.
His awards include
- member of UK 1951 NCAA National Championship team (avg 10.4 points, 2.5 rebounds)
- 5th to score 1,000 points at UK,
- All SEC,
- All American,
- KY High School Basketball Hall of Fame,
- KY Athletic Hall of Fame,
- Dawahares KHSAA Hall of Fame,
- Owensboro High School Hall of Achievement
- and the Owensboro Walk of Fame.
Watson coached a record 14 Regional Championships and two state basketball championships at OHS in 1972 and 1980.
