Will Robinson (basketball)
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William J. Robinson (June 3, 1911 – April 28, 2008) was an American college basketball coach and scout. Robinson became the first African-American head coach in NCAA Division I history when he accepted the position at Illinois State University in 1970. He scouted for the Detroit Pistons for 28 years, and worked 22 years for the Detroit Lions as a part-time scout.[1] Robinson, who is a member of seven athletic halls of fame, was also the first black high school coach in Michigan, winning two state championships in basketball.[2][3]
Quick Facts Biographical details, Born ...
![]() Robinson, circa 1970 | |
Biographical details | |
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Born | (1911-06-03)June 3, 1911 Wadesboro, North Carolina, U.S. |
Died | April 23, 2008(2008-04-23) (aged 96) Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
Playing career | |
1933–1937 | West Virginia State (lettered in four sports) |
Coaching career (HC unless noted) | |
1943–1959 | Sidney D. Miller MS (MI) |
1960–1971 | Pershing HS (MI) |
1971–1975 | Illinois State |
Head coaching record | |
Overall | 62–41 (college) |
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