Rockhurst University men's basketball will make history on Thursday (Nov. 5) as the university celebrates its first-ever jersey retirement, honoring legendary men's basketball standout Pat Caldwell during the annual Men's Basketball Tipoff Social at Blue Hills Country Club in Kansas City.

The event, scheduled for 6–9 p.m., will feature ESPN Bracketologist Joe Lunardi, Rockhurst head coach Todd Lorensen and Kansas City sports journalist Al Wallace, who will serve as the evening's emcee. The night will bring together basketball alumni, fans and supporters to celebrate the program's rich history while looking ahead to the 2026-27 season.

For the first time in Rockhurst University history, an athletic jersey will be retired, with the honor belonging to the late Pat Caldwell, one of the most accomplished student-athletes to ever represent the Hawks.

Caldwell helped lead Rockhurst to the 1964 NAIA National Championship and finished his career as the program's all-time leader in points (2,334) and rebounds (1,113). A two-time NAIA All-American, Caldwell earned First Team honors following the 1965-66 season, when he scored a school-record 788 points.

The historic jersey retirement will recognize not only Caldwell's remarkable achievements on the basketball court but also the lasting legacy he leaves on Rockhurst University. The ceremony will mark a significant moment in Rockhurst Athletics history, establishing Caldwell as the first student-athlete in university history to receive the prestigious honor.

Former teammates, alumni and members of the Rockhurst community will have the opportunity to celebrate Caldwell's life, accomplishments and contributions to the Hawks basketball tradition. For more information and registration, visit here or contact Macie Wallace.