Tubby Smith used to show up at SuperAmerica locations and sign autographs for fans

When Phil Collins lived in Lexington and worked for SuperAmerica, his company teamed up with then Kentucky basketball coach Tubby Smith to support local charities.

“He gave more of his personal time to the community than any coach we have ever had and that includes (John) Calipari, who does a great deal,” Collins said. “The big difference is that nothing was too small for Tubby and Calipari likes to focus on the big things. I am not saying that is bad, just different.”

Collins’ granddaughter, Devon, was one of the SuperAmerica Grandkids selected to present an $85,000 check to Smith in 1998 for his Kids Foundation.

“He signed a basketball for her and the other five kids involved,” Collins said. “He would also frequently show up at SuperAmerica convenience stores unannounced and sign autographs for customers making donations.

“Tubby also sent a signed basketball to me at my retirement celebration.”

That retirement gift surprised Collins because the only time he had met Smith was at the $85,000 check presentation that was handled by SuperAmerica’s marketing department. His retirement party was a private affair with some SuperAmerica management associates and their spouses.

“I was not expecting any gifts, just an evening with close friends and I don’t actually know who arranged for the signed basketball. It was presented to me at this dinner party. They also gave me a limited print of a Kentucky Wildcat with the American flag behind it that was also signed by Tubby,” Collins said.

“Tubby really didn’t have to do this, but he did! Things like this just seem to be part of who he is and his signature on these items makes them a great deal more meaningful.”

These kinds of memories just keep getting shared by UK fans who were thrilled recently to see Kentucky retire a jersey for Smith.