LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - A sculpture honoring former Kentucky men's basketball coach Joe B. Hall is now outside the new Wildcat Coal Lodge.

The University of Kentucky says the bronze sculpture was produced over a period of eight months, beginning as a clay sculpture, then was cast in bronze. It was created by sculptor J. Brett Grill of Columbia, Mo., using photographs of Hall taken from 1972 to 1985, the period of time when he coached the Wildcats to an overall record of 297-100 and the 1978 NCAA championship.

"I can't express what it means to me," explains Coach Joe B. Hall, "it's just unbelievable it's something that doesn't happen to everyone. The statue is so well done, I mean I honestly feel like it looks like me, even down to the shoes!"

During his 13 year tenure as head coach, Coach Hall, who is a native of Cynthiana, led UK to the 1978 National Championship, three Final Fours and eight SEC Championships. He was also named National Coach of the Year. Hall was also a four-time winner of the SEC Coach of The Year honors.

The school says the sculpture is intended to honor Hall and his contributions toward creating Wildcat Lodge.

A large group gathered for the dedication at 8 a.m., including Hall and Coach John Calipari.