Dan Issel, the all-time leading basketball scorer for the University of Kentucky who went on to be an NBA Hall of Famer as a player and coach of the Denver Nuggets, is in Kentucky for the next three weeks for the book release of “Dan Issel: From Kentucky Wildcat to NBA Legend.”

A special evening to celebrate the book is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22, at E.S. Good Barn – Gotham Hall at 1451 University Dr. in Lexington. Issel will be joined by co-author Doug Brunk for a conversation reflecting on Issel’s legendary career. Legendary broadcaster Tom Hammond will be the moderator. A book signing and reception will follow. A $50 ticket includes admission to the event and one hardcover copy of the book.

In the book’s preface, Issel said attending UK was the best decision he ever made. “Not only did I get to play for the iconic Coach (Adolph) Rupp, who pushed and inspired me, but I also met the prettiest cheerleader in the state — Cheri Hughes — who has been my wife since 1969.

While the book highlights his many successes, it also includes some of the darker times. “We talk about that in this book, and about the grace, forgiveness and resilience that followed.”

Issel’s first book signing was scheduled in Hazard on Tuesday, Oct. 20.

After the Thursday event, other scheduled events are:

Oct. 26: Reading and book signing, Paul Sawyier Public Library, Frankfort.

Oct. 27: Book signing, Barnes and Noble in Fayette Mall, Lexington.

Oct. 29: Book signing and discussion, Henderson County Public Library.

Nov. 6: Book signing at Your Frame of Mind in Lexington.