I spent a lot of time in El Paso while in the Army. Being in Air Defense will do that to you.
One constant there was a guy they called The Bear, UTEP Basketball coach Don Haskins. He died yesterday at the age of 78.
Don isn't as well known as he should be. He kicked down what was left of the NCAA's color barrier in 1966, and won 719 games total. Here's the money quote from that game (emphasis mine):
Later asked about his decision to start five African American players, Haskins downplayed the significance of his decision. "I really didn't think about starting five black guys. I just wanted to put my five best guys on the court," Haskins was later quoted as saying. "I just wanted to win the game."Wow, the whole "ability over appearance" thing. From a small town West Texas coach. Go figure.
Rest in Peace, Don. Our world's a better place for having you in it.
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2 comments:
There was a great movie about him and the events in question a couple of years ago.
It's called Glory Road and I highly recommend it if you haven't seen it.
I saw that in the article. Will have to check it out.
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