Don Haskins, known as “The Bear,” made a significant impact on the world of college basketball both as a player and a coach.
He played for three years under coach Henry Iba at Oklahoma A&M, now Oklahoma State University, before making history as the head coach at Texas Western College, later known as the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). Haskins is most famous for breaking color barriers in 1966 by starting five black players in an NCAA championship game, leading Texas Western to a national title.
Haskins’ tenure at Texas Western highlighted his commitment to excellence and fair play.
Ignoring racial prejudices of the time, he focused solely on putting the best players on the court, a strategy that led him to an unforgettable victory in 1966. This milestone not only earned him a place in the history books but also in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1997, and later in the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006.
Hard work and a no-nonsense attitude characterized Haskins’ approach to coaching.
Born in Enid, Oklahoma, and raised with values of perseverance and determination, he instilled these qualities in his players.
When he passed away in 2008, his legacy as a trailblazer in the sport was cemented, making him a key figure in the history of college basketball. Haskins’ story continues to inspire fans and players alike, illustrating the far-reaching impact of dedication and courage in sports.
Who Is Don Haskins?
Don Haskins, also known as “The Bear,” was a renowned basketball coach known for his contributions to college basketball and his significant role in breaking racial barriers. He is celebrated for his leadership at Texas Western College, now the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP).
Where Did Don Haskins Grow Up?
Don Haskins was born on March 14, 1930, and grew up in Enid, Oklahoma.
He spent his early years in this town, which helped shape his character and determination. Enid, a small community, provided a backdrop for Haskins’ early experiences with basketball.
He played high school basketball there and showed early promise as an athlete. His formative years in Enid laid the groundwork for his future career in coaching, instilling in him a deep understanding of the game and a strong work ethic.
Where Did Don Haskins Live?
Throughout his coaching career, Don Haskins primarily resided in El Paso, Texas.
He moved there in 1961 when he accepted the head coaching position at Texas Western College. El Paso became his home, where he would make his most significant contributions to college basketball.
He lived in this city until his passing in 2008. El Paso held a special place in his heart, and he became a beloved figure in the local community. The city honored his legacy by naming the basketball arena at UTEP the Don Haskins Center.
Who Is Don Haskins Married To?
Don Haskins was married to Mary Haskins.
The couple shared a strong bond throughout their marriage, supporting each other through the ups and downs of his coaching career. Mary played an essential role in his life, providing emotional support and stability.
Their partnership was a testament to their mutual respect and love. They remained married until Don Haskins’ passing in 2008. Mary’s presence in his life was a source of strength, allowing him to focus on his coaching duties and achieve remarkable success.
Does Don Haskins Have Children?
Don Haskins and Mary had four children: David, Steve, Brent, and Mark.
Their family life was centered in El Paso, where Don spent much of his career. His children have fond memories of their father’s dedication to basketball and his influence on their lives.
David, Steve, Brent, and Mark grew up witnessing their father’s commitment to the sport and the significant impact he had on his players and the community. While Don Haskins is celebrated for his professional achievements, his role as a father was equally important to him.
Don Haskins College Basketball Career
Don Haskins had a notable college basketball career marked by his time as a player and his outstanding achievements as a coach. This section will cover Haskins’ playing days, coaching legacy, awards, and performance in the NCAA tournament.
Where Did Don Haskins Play Basketball?
Don Haskins played college basketball at Oklahoma A&M, now known as Oklahoma State University.
He attended from 1949 to 1952 and played as both a guard and a forward. During his time there, Haskins was coached by the legendary Hank Iba, a Hall of Fame coach who had a profound impact on his playing and future coaching career.
Under Iba’s guidance, Haskins developed strong defensive skills and an understanding of the game that would later define his coaching style. He earned second team All-Conference honors in his senior year, showcasing his talent and dedication on the court.
Did Don Haskins Coach College Basketball?
Yes, Don Haskins became a highly influential college basketball coach.
He is best known for his tenure at Texas Western College, now the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). Haskins led the Texas Western team from 1961 to 1999, during which he gained national attention for his coaching style and success.
One of his most historic moments came in 1966, when he started an all-black lineup in the NCAA championship game against the all-white University of Kentucky team coached by Adolph Rupp. This decision not only won the national basketball title but also made a significant social statement by challenging racial barriers in college sports.
What Awards Did Don Haskins Accomplish In College Basketball?
Don Haskins’ coaching career was filled with numerous accolades.
He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1997 and later into the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006. His teams won 17 WAC championships, and he was named WAC Coach of the Year multiple times.
Haskins also received the prestigious John Bunn Award and the Naismith Award for his contributions to college basketball. His legacy is further cemented by his role in breaking racial barriers and coaching several future NBA stars, including Nate Archibald, Tim Hardaway, and Antonio Davis.
How Did Don Haskins Perform In The NCAA Tournament?
Don Haskins’ most memorable NCAA tournament performance came in 1966 when his Texas Western team won the national championship.
This victory was groundbreaking as it featured the first all-black starting lineup in a championship game, defeating the University of Kentucky under coach Adolph Rupp. Haskins’ strategic approach and emphasis on defense were key factors in their success.
Throughout his coaching career, Haskins led his teams to multiple NCAA tournaments, often advancing to the Sweet 16 and beyond. His ability to guide his teams to competitive play in the national spotlight earned him recognition as one of college basketball’s most respected coaches.
Don Haskins Professional Basketball Career
Don Haskins is best known for his coaching career, especially his historic win with Texas Western in 1966. However, his contributions to basketball went beyond coaching at the collegiate level.
Did Don Haskins Play In The NBA?
Don Haskins did not play in the NBA. His playing career was primarily at the collegiate level.
Haskins played college basketball for three years under coach Henry Iba at Oklahoma A&M (now Oklahoma State University). Although he had a robust playing background, he did not transition into a professional NBA player.
Did Don Haskins Coach In The NBA?
Don Haskins did not coach in the NBA.
He spent the majority of his coaching career at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), previously known as Texas Western College. At UTEP, he led his team to a historic victory in the 1966 NCAA Championship, making a significant impact on the sport. Although Haskins never made the jump to coaching professional NBA teams, his influence was strongly felt in collegiate basketball.
What Awards Did Don Haskins Accomplish In Professional Basketball?
Haskins received numerous accolades over his illustrious career.
He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to the sport. Haskins also earned a spot in the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006.
His 1966 NCAA Championship win is still celebrated as a pivotal moment in the history of the sport, breaking racial barriers and setting a new standard for inclusivity in college basketball.
Did Don Haskins Win An NBA Championship?
Don Haskins did not win an NBA Championship. His career was predominantly in college basketball, where he achieved his most notable success.
The 1966 NCAA Championship victory remains the pinnacle of his achievements as a coach. While he never coached in the NBA nor led a team to an NBA Championship, his legacy in the sport is undeniably impactful, influencing many players and coaches who went on to achieve success in the NBA.
What Is Don Haskins Up To Now?
Don Haskins, known for breaking racial barriers in sports, passed away on September 7, 2008. This section explores what he was involved in before his passing, from basketball activities to speaking engagements.
Is Don Haskins Still Involved In Basketball?
Before his death, Don Haskins was no longer actively coaching.
He retired in 1999 after a storied career at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). During his tenure, he led the 1966 Texas Western team to an NCAA championship victory, a milestone that was later immortalized in the Disney film, “Glory Road.”
After retirement, he remained a respected figure in the basketball world. Many coaches and players sought his advice and attended his lectures. His influence on the sport continued through the stories and strategies he shared with younger generations.
Does Don Haskins Do Private Speaking Engagements?
Prior to his passing, Don Haskins was active in private speaking engagements.
He was frequently invited to speak at events and conferences, sharing his experiences from his coaching days. These engagements often focused on the pivotal 1966 NCAA Championship and the challenges he faced, including hate mail and pressure from detractors.
He also spoke about the importance of diversity and inclusion in sports. His speeches were well-received for their candidness and the lessons they imparted on perseverance and equality. Even after his death, his legacy continues to inspire new generations.
Does Don Haskins Have A Podcast?
Don Haskins did not have a podcast, given that they became popular after his retirement and death.
However, his insights and stories from his career are preserved through various interviews and documentaries, including segments in the movie “Glory Road.” Media outlets and organizations have also archived many of his speeches and interviews. These recordings continue to be valuable resources for basketball enthusiasts and scholars studying the history of the sport and its evolution over the decades.
Has Don Haskins Gone Into Broadcasting?
Don Haskins did not transition into a broadcasting career. He spent the years following his retirement focused on consulting and mentoring within the basketball community.
He also faced several health concerns that limited his public appearances. Despite the lack of a broadcasting presence, his contributions to the sport were frequently discussed in sports media.
His strategies and games were often analyzed, particularly his role in the groundbreaking 1966 NCAA Championship. His presence in the basketball community remained strong through the acknowledgment of his impact on the game.
Through these different avenues, Haskins’ lasting impact on basketball and his legacy at UTEP remains significant. His influence in breaking down racial barriers and promoting equality in sports continues to resonate, ensuring his contributions are not forgotten.
What Is Don Haskins Net Worth?
Don Haskins, known for his incredible coaching career, also had financial success. Though his exact net worth is not publicly detailed, several aspects of his career and earnings can be highlighted.
Career Earnings:
Haskins coached at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) for 38 years. He was known for his dedication rather than financial gain.
Coaching positions at state universities often provide modest salaries compared to professional leagues.
Book and Film:
Haskins co-wrote a book titled Glory Road, which was later adapted into a Disney movie. The book and film deals likely provided additional income.
Hall of Fame Impact:
Being inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1997 and the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006 possibly increased his revenue through speaking engagements and appearances.
Final Considerations:
Though detailed financial records are not readily available, Haskins’ career and contributions to basketball undoubtedly brought him both recognition and financial rewards, though probably modest by today’s coaching standards.