Al Serkin — Basketball · Jews In Sports

Serkin played for St. Louis University in the mid-1950s and helped the Billikens play in the postseason for three consecutive years. In 2001, Al was inducted into the Billikens' Hall of Fame. His career average of 8.6 rebounds per game still ranked as 14th all-time in school history!

Birth and Death Dates:
unknown

Career Highlights:
Serkin was an solid player for St. Louis during the mid-1950s when the school boasted one of the best basketball programs in the country. In 1955, St. Louis finished the regular season with a record of 19-7 and ranked No. 18 UPI (No. 20 AP) in the country. They also won the Missouri Valley Conference title with a 8-2 conference mark and were invited to play in the NIT (National Invitational Tournament). After beating Connecticut, 110-103, in the first round, the Billikens lost to Dayton, 97-81, in the second round. Serkin scored only two points in the game. The following year, Al had the best statistical season of his career garnering 10.6 points and 14 rebounds per game. St. Louis remained one of the best teams in the country and finished the season 18-6 and with a rank of No. 16 (UPI). The Billikens returned to the NIT, but lost in the first round to Xavier, 84-80. Serkin scored 14 points in the match.

In 1957, Al's senior season, he averaged 9.5 points per game and was named second team All-Missouri Valley Conference. His performance helped St. Louis win the Missouri Valley Conference title with a conference record of 12-2, and go on to the NCAA tournament. The Billikens finished 19-7 overall and were ranked No. 9 in the UPI poll (No. 10). Although a favorite in the tournament, St. Louis did not live up to expectations. In the Midwest Regional Semifinal, Serkin scored 6 points and grabbed 11 rebounds but fouled out as his squad was beaten by Oklahoma City, 75-66. In the Midwest consolation game against SMU, Serkin scored only 3 points and had 6 rebounds. The Billikens lost the contest, 78-68.

Origin:
unknown

Career Dates:
Serkin played forward and center at St. Louis from 1955-1957.