A friend of the game: George Breidenthal Jr.

LAWRENCE, Kan. –It wasn’t uncommon to see George Breidenthal Jr. in the stands at a basketball game; his goal was to see 100 games a season around the Sunflower State.
 
One of the many programs and people that Breidenthal befriended was head coach Brandon Schneider and Kansas women’s basketball.
 
“I consider myself fortunate to have met and built a friendship with George,” said Kansas head coach Brandon Schneider during the unveiling on the plaque honoring Breidenthal. “Very rarely do you get to meet somebody that impacts your life in so many positive ways and George was one of those individuals. His support of Jory and me at Emporia State truly enabled us to be nationally competitive. He was a big reason we were able to win a National Championship in 2010.”
 
A life-long Kansan, Breidenthal wasn’t just an avid sports fan, but also a passionate educator, successful businessman and committed philanthropist. He supported the Jayhawks and numerous other programs across the state of Kansas.
 
Breidenthal’s family is deeply rooted in Kansas City, Kansas and founded Security Bank over 100 years ago. It was no surprise that he gave back and supported many athletics programs across the state at all levels.

For 32 years, Breidenthal served as a USD 500 School Board member. He also served on the Donnelly College Board of Trustees and the Foundation Board of Emporia State.
Over 50 years ago, Breidenthal’s grandfather established the Breidenthal Foundation, which gives scholarships to students in need of an opportunity.
 
Looking for a way to honor his legacy after his passing in 2015, Breidenthal’s children, McKenzie and Ben, gifted Kansas Athletics with a one-million-dollar pledge for Allen Fieldhouse projects. Breidenthal’s generosity will be on display for all to remember, as the women’s basketball tunnel into Allen Fieldhouse was dedicated in his name on Feb. 27. 
 
Breidenthal’s children have continued their father’s work in philanthropy and are co-Presidents of the Breidenthal Foundation. Like her father, McKenzie is a fan of Kansas women’s basketball and can be seen at games cheering on the Jayhawks.
 
Thanks to the Breidenthal’s generous gift, the women’s basketball lounge received upgrades and is now known as the George Breidenthal Player Lounge.
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