Former Illinois State basketball coach Will Robinson.
Will Robinson, who made history as the first African-American Division I coach when he was hired as head basketball coach at Illinois State University in 1970, has died at 96.
A former Chicago and Detroit high school basketball coach, Robinson was at Illinois State for five years, during which he guided the career of U.S. Olympic and NBA star Doug Collins. Robinson’s hiring, by Athletic Director Milt Weisbecker, paved the way for African-American coaches at Division I and the professional ranks.
“With the passing of Will Robinson, Illinois State University has lost a legend and a hero,” said President Al Bowman. “On this day, his family is uppermost in our thoughts. His vision, integrity and pursuit of excellence will remain in our memories forever.”
Robinson was a Detroit Pistons talent scout and assistant to the director of player personnel from 1975 to 2003, when he retired at age 92. Robinson was inducted into the Redbird Athletics Hall of Fame in 1980.
