A freshman, Ivey played football and basketball at Baylor. The bus picked Ivey up at Temple as he decided to hitchhike down to Austin for the game. The vehicle was so crowded Ivey had to travel the first few miles standing on the running board. Taking pity on the freshman, equipment manager Ed Gooch offered Ivey his seat inside. This gesture of kindness would ultimately save Gooch's life but cost Ivey his own.