Dave Bliss was born on September 20, 1943, in Binghamton, New York. From a young age, he showed a passion for basketball, and it was clear that he would one day make a name for himself in the sport.
Bliss attended Cornell University, where he had an outstanding playing career. He was so impressive on the court that he eventually earned a spot in the Cornell Hall of Fame, solidifying his place in the school's basketball history.
After graduating from Cornell, Bliss transitioned into coaching. He started as an assistant coach at Army, where he worked under legendary head coach Bobby Knight. Bliss gained valuable experience during his time at Army, learning from one of the best in the business.
Bliss went on to have a successful coaching career, with lengthy tenures at schools such as Oklahoma, Southern Methodist, New Mexico, and Baylor. He experienced some highs and lows during his time as a head coach, but he always remained dedicated to his players and the game of basketball.
Bliss's coaching career reached new heights when he took on the role of head coach at the University of Oklahoma. During his time with the Sooners, he led the team to multiple successful seasons, including a trip to the Sweet 16. However, despite his best efforts, Bliss was unable to guide the team further in the NCAA tournament.
After leaving Oklahoma, Bliss found himself at Southern Methodist University, where he continued to make a name for himself as a respected coach in the college basketball world. He brought his unique coaching style to the Mustangs, leaving a lasting impact on the program.
Bliss's coaching journey also included a stop at the University of New Mexico, where he once again proved his ability to lead and motivate a team. His time at New Mexico was challenging, but Bliss embraced the opportunity to help shape the future of the Lobos' basketball program.
Unfortunately, Bliss's coaching career was marred by controversy during his tenure at Baylor University. Following the tragic murder of Baylor player Patrick Dennehy, investigations revealed serious misconduct within the program. Bliss ultimately resigned as head coach, facing backlash and criticism for his involvement in the scandal.
Despite the challenges and controversies that marked his coaching career, Dave Bliss will always be remembered for his passion for the game of basketball and his dedication to his players. His impact on the sport and the lives of those he coached will not be forgotten, and his legacy will live on in the annals of college basketball history.