Thursday, May 29, 2014

SPRINGFIELD, MA – The basketball community lost Bob Houbregs, Hall of Fame Class of 1987 and record-setter at the University of Washington, on May 28th at 82 years old. “We are very saddened to hear of the passing of Bob Houbregs,” said John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. “Bob made a major impact in the game of basketball and his legacy will continue forever. Our condolences go to his friends and family.”   Houbregs is known for his success at the University of Washington and changing the importance of West Coast basketball. He holds Washington’s top three scoring records and was the all-time leading scorer until 1988 with 1,774 points.  The hook shot specialist was named Helms Foundation Player of the Year and consensus All-America in 1953. Houbregs led Washington to PCC titles from 1951-1953 and its only NCAA Final Four appearance in 1953. After college he played five pro seasons with the Hawks, Baltimore Bullets, Boston Celtics, Fort Wayne Pistons, and Detroit Pistons.