SMC Den of Distinction member Peter Finney has published a new book, giving readers insight into his prolific career as a sports writer over six decades.

Finney began his writing career as a college freshman at Loyola University in 1945. He went on to work for the States-Item, and later the Times-Picayune, until his retirement in 2013.

“The Best of Peter Finney, Legendary New Orleans Sportswriter” showcases some of Finney’s most memorable pieces, including Finney’s account of Billy Cannon's 89-yard punt return against Ole Miss in 1959; Tom Dempsey's 1970 NFL-record 63-yard field goal; and the Saints' 31–17 victory over the Indianapolis Colts in the 2010 Super Bowl. The book also includes profiles from athletes like Jesse Owens, Joe DiMaggio, Muhammad Ali, Pete Maravich, Archie, Peyton, and Eli Manning and Drew Brees.

Finney’s son, Peter Finney, Jr., also a Loyola graduate, provides the introduction to the book.

The SMC inducted Finney into its Den of Distinction in 2014. Finney is also a member of the Loyola Athletics Hall of Fame.

The Times-Picayune called Finney’s book “a must-read for any Louisiana sports fan.”