A Triple Powerhouse Tribute: Netflix, ESPN, and Guinness World Records Unite to Honor Purdue Legend Gene Keady in New Must-Watch Documentary
WEST LAFAYETTE, IN — One of the most legendary figures in college basketball is finally receiving the grand spotlight he deserves. In a groundbreaking collaboration, Netflix, ESPN, and Guinness World Records have come together to produce a powerful new documentary chronicling the life, legacy, and lasting impact of Gene Keady — the iconic Purdue Boilermakers head coach who redefined excellence on the hardwood.
Titled “GENE: More Than a Coach,” the documentary is already being hailed as a monumental celebration of leadership, grit, and greatness. With contributions from three global giants in entertainment, sports, and history, this project is unlike anything the college basketball world has ever seen.
At the heart of the film is the story of a man whose presence on the sidelines was as fiery as it was inspiring. Gene Keady, known for his no-nonsense demeanor, slicked-back combover, and ironclad work ethic, spent 25 years building a legacy at Purdue that still echoes through the halls of Mackey Arena. Over his storied career, Keady racked up 512 wins, six Big Ten titles, and countless Coach of the Year honors. But this documentary proves that his biggest victories weren’t just on the scoreboard—they were in the lives he changed.
Netflix brings its signature cinematic storytelling, unearthing never-before-seen footage of locker room speeches, emotional family moments, and off-the-court triumphs. ESPN enriches the documentary with expert analysis, historical context, and interviews with fellow coaching legends, including Tom Izzo, Mike Krzyzewski, and Bob Knight. And Guinness World Records commemorates Keady’s achievements by officially recognizing him for the most Big Ten Coach of the Year awards (7)—a record that may never be broken.
> “Coach Keady’s story isn’t just about basketball,” says one narrator. “It’s about identity, loyalty, toughness, and how one man’s fire lit the torch for generations of Boilermakers.”
The documentary highlights emotional testimonies from former players like Glenn Robinson, Brian Cardinal, and Matt Painter, who credit Keady not just for their basketball skills but for shaping their lives. There are tearful moments, joyful laughs, and electric flashbacks to some of the greatest college basketball battles of all time.
And yes—the combover gets its own segment, hilariously unpacked with Keady himself reflecting on the now-iconic hairstyle with humor and humility.
From his Kansas roots to his Boilermaker dynasty, “GENE: More Than a Coach” is more than just a sports film—it’s a tribute to resilience, character, and the unbreakable bond between a coach and his team, his university, and his fans.
This collaboration marks a historic moment in sports entertainment, showing what happens when storytelling, legacy, and global recognition collide.
So grab your popcorn, get your tissues ready, and prepare to be inspired.
Gene Keady didn’t just build a program—he built a legacy. And now, the world gets to see it in full, living color.
Streaming soon. Only on Netflix. In partnership with ESPN and Guinness World Records.
