Charlie Tyra: 1935-2006

by Mike Rutherford on Dec 30, 2006 9:51 PM EST in News

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A true Cardinal legend, may he rest in peace. Thoughts and prayers for the Tyra family.

Charlie Tyra, the University of Louisville's first consensus basketball All-American, died Friday at the Franciscan Health Care Facility in Louisville.

Tyra had suffered from congestive heart failure for more than two years, said his son Charlie Jr.

Tyra led his team to the 1956 National Invitation Tournament championship, earning most valuable player honors.

He holds the UofL record for rebounds in a game (38) and career (1,726). He averaged 17 rebounds a game - second in school history, behind Wes Unseld - and ranks fourth in scoring average (18.2).

He averaged 23.8 points and 22.2 rebounds a game as a junior, then 21.4 points and 20 rebounds as a senior.