<div>For more than four decades, Bubba Luckett has been a coach, mentor, leader, and inspiration to generations of young people in Memphis. Now, this legendary coach is facing the biggest challenge of his life—and we are asking his community to rally around him and his wife, Amy, as they begin this next chapter together.
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<div>In the spring of 2022, Bubba was diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), a rare and progressive lung disease that causes irreversible scarring and thickening of the tissue around the lungs. Over time, this makes it increasingly difficult to breathe.
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<div>Bubba has never smoked a day in his life.
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<div>Since late 2022, he has participated in an experimental clinical trial intended to slow the progression of the disease and help manage some of its symptoms. More recently, he has begun requiring supplemental oxygen part time. Despite everything, Bubba has continued to show the same determination and strength that have defined his life and career.
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<div>Now, Bubba is in line for a lung transplant at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville. Once the transplant takes place, Bubba and Amy will need to relocate to Nashville for at least three months so he can undergo the intensive recovery, rehabilitation, and follow-up care required after transplantation.
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<div>This extended stay comes with many expenses that aren't necessarily covered by medical insurance—temporary housing and transportation, meals, parking, medications and supplies, travel back and forth, and the countless other incidental costs that come with being away from home for an extended period while caring for a loved one.
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<div>That's where we hope Bubba's community can help.
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<div>For those who know Bubba, it is impossible to tell his story without talking about the impact he has had on young people through basketball.
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<div>Bubba began playing basketball at White Station Middle School before transferring to Christian Brothers High School, where he helped change the culture of the basketball program. As a player, he established numerous school records, including the career scoring record of 1,677 points, a record that stood for 43 years. His jersey, #43, has been retired.
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<div>He went on to play basketball on a full scholarship at the University of Memphis from 1979–1983, playing alongside Tiger greats including Keith Lee, Andre Turner, Hank McDowell, and Doom Haynes. After graduating with a degree in business administration, Bubba returned to Christian Brothers High School and began his coaching career.
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<div>In 1990, he became the head coach at CBHS. Since then, he has built one of the most successful high school basketball programs in Tennessee, compiling more than 700 victories, numerous region championships, 14 appearances in the State Tournament, and five trips to the State Championship game. His 2022 team finished a perfect 28–0, winning the State Championship and becoming only the third undefeated Memphis high school basketball team in history to win a state title.
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<div>His accomplishments have been recognized throughout the Memphis and Tennessee sports communities. In 2024, he received the Billy J. Murphy Award as part of the University of Memphis Hall of Fame Awards, and in 2026, he was inducted into the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame.
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<div>But for those who have played for him, coached alongside him, or simply known him, Bubba's greatest legacy isn't found in the win column.
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<div>It is found in the lives he has touched.
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<div>He has coached 61 players who went on to play college basketball, but his influence extends far beyond the basketball court. For generations of young men, Coach Luckett has been a teacher of perseverance, discipline, teamwork, accountability, and character.
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<div>Now it's our turn to give some of that support back to him.
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<div>We are asking friends, former players, families, colleagues, and members of the Memphis community to help Bubba and Amy navigate the financial challenges that come with this difficult journey. Every donation, regardless of size, will help ease the burden of the incidental expenses associated with their three-month stay in Nashville and allow Amy to focus on what matters most—being by Bubba's side.
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<div>If Bubba has ever coached your child, encouraged you, celebrated a victory with you, helped you through a difficult moment, or simply made a difference in your life, we hope you'll consider giving. And if you aren't able to donate, sharing this campaign is just as meaningful.
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<div>Bubba has spent a lifetime showing up for others.
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<div>Now, let's show up for Bubba and Amy.
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<div>Thank you for your prayers, encouragement, generosity, and support as Bubba fights for the chance to breathe easier and return home to the people and community he loves.
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Thomas Shallow III

Stuart McCown

Anonymous

Gabriel Croom

Philip Dunavant

Dmarius Wilkes

August Giovanetti

Cort Casey

Luke Wilemon

Benjamin Duffel

K Lee Blalack II

Mike Garibaldi

John May

Gregory Chaliff

Keith Schmitt

Randolph Jones

William Sanvidge

Chris Clasgens

Craig Weiss

Mike Shearin

Help Coach Bubba Luckett During His Lung Transplant Journey

Help Coach Bubba Luckett During His Lung Transplant Journey

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