Gene Keady's hair makes 'Late Show'

By Paul Trembacki
Sports Editor

Not only is Purdue basketball coach Gene Keady not offended by a running David Letterman joke aimed at his hairdo, he is considering an appearance on the comedian's late-night talk show.

"The Late Show with David Letterman" has been mentioning false sponsors for its Campaign 2000 segment, which runs nightly as part of the show. The sponsors include heart bypass surgery, Elian Gonzalez, and Purdue basketball. For the Purdue ad, a video clip of Keady ranting on the sideline plays as Late Show announcer Alan Kalter says, "Purdue basketball — It'll comb you over!"

Keady, however, said he doesn't mind jokes aimed at his hair.

"I don't care what they think about it," said Keady. "It's all the hair I've got. If I cared, I'd change it."

Keady is so open-minded that he may appear on the show in the near future to talk to Letterman, an Indiana native and Ball State graduate.

Kim Izzo, a Late Show spokesperson, said Keady has been contacted about appearing on the show as a guest of Letterman's, but Keady is still thinking about it.

"I don't know if I'm going to go on yet," said Keady. "I'm busy trying to make sure my players graduate and trying to get ready for next season."

Keady said he is also busy searching for another player, most likely a junior college transfer, to complete the roster for next season.

Last season, Keady led the Boilermakers to an Elite Eight appearance and a 24-9 record.

Izzo said it was during Purdue's run through the NCAA tournament that Letterman, not one of his writers, got the inspiration for writing the joke. Keady thinks the joke is in good fun.

"It's comical," said Keady. "It gives Purdue publicity, and it's funny."

The Late Show appreciates Keady's attitude.

"He has been a good sport about the whole thing," said Izzo. "He would love to do something, but nothing has been firmed up or set in stone."