Netflix, ESPN, and Guinness World Records Team Up for Groundbreaking Documentary Honoring Purdue Coaching Legend Gene Keady
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — In a monumental and unprecedented partnership, Netflix, ESPN Films, and Guinness World Records have announced the upcoming release of a feature-length documentary celebrating the storied career of Gene Keady, the iconic head coach who transformed Purdue University’s men’s basketball program into a powerhouse of the Big Ten and beyond.
The film, titled *”Keady: Legacy of a Legend,”* is set to premiere in early 2026, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of Keady’s final Big Ten championship at Purdue. It will be available globally on Netflix, with ESPN broadcasting an extended version during its NCAA March Madness coverage. Guinness World Records has confirmed that the documentary will include the official presentation of a record recognizing Keady as the “Winningest Coach in Purdue Men’s Basketball History.”
An Unmatched Legacy
Gene Keady, known as much for his combative coaching style and signature comb-over as his on-court achievements, led the Purdue Boilermakers from 1980 to 2005. During his 25-year tenure, Keady amassed an astonishing 512 wins, seven Big Ten regular-season championships, and six Big Ten Coach of the Year honors — a record at the time of his retirement.
The documentary is expected to explore not only Keady’s basketball acumen and strategic mind but also his deep relationships with players, his relentless work ethic, and his enduring impact on college basketball.
“Gene Keady is not just a coaching legend — he’s a cultural icon in the sport of college basketball,” said executive producer Ezra Feldman of Netflix Sports. “His career embodies everything we love about sports storytelling: perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of excellence. We’re honored to help bring his story to life.”
A Star-Studded Production
“Keady: Legacy of a Legend” is being co-produced by ESPN Films, known for its Emmy-winning 30 for 30 series, and Netflix’s acclaimed sports documentary unit responsible for The Last Dance and Quarterback. Directed by award-winning filmmaker Lauren Thomas (March to Glory), the film will feature in-depth interviews with former players, rival coaches, sports journalists, and celebrities influenced by Keady’s legacy.
Among the many voices featured are Matt Painter, Keady’s former player and current Purdue head coach; Glenn Robinson, the 1994 Naismith Award winner; Tom Izzo of Michigan State; and coaching peers like Mike Krzyzewski and Roy Williams. Additionally, archival footage will offer viewers a glimpse into the most pivotal games, fiery halftime speeches, and behind-the-scenes moments that defined Keady’s legendary run.
“This film is not just about wins and losses,” said Thomas. “It’s about a man who shaped lives, a mentor who believed in toughness and loyalty, and a coach whose presence could light up an arena and instill fear in opponents.”
Guinness Recognition
Perhaps one of the most unique aspects of this documentary is the formal collaboration with Guinness World Records. In a special segment of the film, Guinness will present Keady with an official world record: *Most Wins as Head Coach of the Purdue Boilermakers Men’s Basketball Team*. The presentation was filmed during a private ceremony at Mackey Arena earlier this year, attended by Purdue alumni, university officials, and former players.
“Gene Keady has left an indelible mark on the game and the record books,” said Charlotte McAteer, a spokesperson for Guinness World Records. “This recognition is long overdue and celebrates a career defined by excellence and endurance.”
A Cultural Phenomenon
Keady’s intense demeanor, tactical genius, and unmistakable presence on the sideline made him a household name far beyond the Big Ten. Often seen barking instructions with arms crossed and a fierce glare, Keady was feared and respected in equal measure. Yet those close to him describe a man who was loyal, humorous, and deeply committed to his players’ personal and athletic development.
The documentary promises to pull back the curtain on the man behind the myth. It delves into Keady’s upbringing in Kansas, his early days coaching at Western Kentucky, and his rise to national prominence with Purdue. Interviews with his late wife Pat and current wife Kathleen will provide intimate perspectives on the personal challenges and triumphs he faced off the court.
Purdue University Celebrates
In conjunction with the film’s release, Purdue University plans to host a campus-wide celebration and screening event at Mackey Arena. The event will include a panel discussion featuring Keady himself, as well as key figures from the documentary.
“This is a moment of immense pride for Purdue,” said Purdue President Mung Chiang. “Coach Keady’s impact extends far beyond basketball. He represents what it means to be a Boilermaker: hardworking, resilient, and committed to greatness. We are thrilled the world will now see the story we’ve always known.”
Anticipation Builds
Buzz surrounding the project is already building across social media, with fans and alumni sharing favorite Keady memories and tributes. The hashtag #KeadyLegacy trended nationally following the announcement, and early footage teased by Netflix shows a mixture of adrenaline-pumping game clips and poignant personal reflections.
Sports media insiders are already predicting the film could become one of the most-watched sports documentaries of the decade, especially with the backing of two industry powerhouses in Netflix and ESPN.
A Legend Immortalized
While Gene Keady never coached Purdue to a national championship, his legacy is etched in the heart of college basketball history. His influence continues through his coaching tree, his former players, and the continued success of the Purdue program.
In the words of Coach Keady himself, captured in the film’s emotional trailer:
“You don’t coach to be remembered. You coach to make a difference.”
With Keady: Legacy of a Legend, that difference will now be remembered — and celebrated — by generations to come.
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