Henry Iba was born on June 6, 1904 in Easton, Missouri. He developed a love for basketball at a young age and played throughout his high school years. Despite not playing professionally himself, Iba's passion for the sport led him to pursue a career in coaching. After graduating from college, he began his coaching career at Maryville Teachers' College before moving on to the University of Colorado.
During his time at Oklahoma State University, Henry Iba achieved great success as a basketball coach. He led the team to two national titles and coached the U.S. Olympic basketball team in three consecutive Olympics. His dedication to the sport and strategic coaching style made him a respected figure in the world of basketball.
One of Iba's most memorable moments as a coach came during the 1972 Olympics. In the gold-medal game against the Soviet Union, the U.S. team lost in a controversial manner. Despite Doug Collins swooshing two free throws to put the U.S. up by one with three seconds left, additional time was added and the Russian team scored to win. This moment was a heartbreaking loss for Iba and his team.
Henry Iba's impact on the world of basketball is still felt today. His innovative coaching techniques and commitment to excellence have inspired countless coaches and players. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1969, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest coaches in the history of the sport.
Throughout his career, Henry Iba was known for his dedication to the game, his strategic coaching style, and his commitment to excellence. His legacy continues to inspire generations of basketball players and coaches.
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