CHICAGO, Ill. – The Corliss High School Class of 1979 gathered on Friday to celebrate Head Coach Darrell Walker‘s legendary career as they officially retired his jersey number. Former teammates rallied for Walker’s jersey retirement, saying it was long overdue. Walker’s legacy is nothing short of amazing, as he is the only active head coach who has coached Division I, Division II, WNBA, and NBA teams. Despite his successes, Walker has never forgotten his humble beginnings.
“Sometimes I have to pinch myself when I look back at my career and where I started,” Walker said. “Basketball has been very good to me. It has allowed me to travel all over the world and meet some amazing people. This career has really blessed me.”
Coming to play in Arkansas was not his first choice once his career ended at Corliss High. “My initial choice was DePaul University,” Walker said. “I wanted to go play with Terry Cummings, Mark Aguirre, but coach had a different plan.” Walker’s coach told him he would be going to the University of Arkansas to play under Eddie Sutton. “He told me I had to get out of Chicago, so that’s exactly what I did,” Walker said.
Former teammates spoke highly of not only Walker’s basketball abilities, but his personal values that he instills in each of his players now. “Darrell pushes for these kids to not only excel on the court, but in life,” a former teammate said. “He shows them that there is more to life than basketball.”
Walker’s high school career matches the impressiveness of the collegiate and professional career he made for himself. Just a few of the honors Walker was given include First Team All-Section, First Team All-State, and Chicago All-City team.
Even 45 years post graduation, Walker remembers his Corliss High family and will never forget the part they all played in his successful career. “It all started at Corliss, and I’m grateful for those who pushed me then, who are still here supporting me today,” Walker said.
