Ray Meyer

Ray Meyer

Ray Meyer was born on December 18th, 1913

Full Name: Ray Meyer
Profession: Basketball coach
Nationality: American
Coaching Career: DePaul University
Birth Year: 1913
Death Year: 2006
Hall of Fame: Naismith Memorial
Career Wins: 741 wins

Legendary college basketball coach who led DePaul University to 724 wins and 37 NCAA tournament appearances, earning him a spot in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Written by: Sofia Garcia Sofia Garcia

Ray Meyer: The Architect of DePaul's Basketball Legacy

Ray Meyer, the esteemed American men's collegiate basketball coach, is renowned for his remarkable 42-year tenure at DePaul University, where he compiled an impressive record of 724-354 and led the Blue Demons to 21 postseason appearances.

A Coaching Dynasty Born

Meyer's impact on DePaul's basketball program was profound, as he transformed it into a national powerhouse, recording 37 winning seasons and 12 20-win seasons, including seven consecutive from 1978 to 1984. His coaching prowess was evident in the two Final Four appearances in 1943 and 1979, and the coveted National Invitation Tournament (NIT) title in 1945.

Mentor to Basketball Greats

Meyer's coaching legacy extends far beyond his impressive win-loss record. He played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of some of basketball's greatest talents, including George Mikan, Mark Aguirre, and Terry Cummings. Mikan, in particular, is often credited as basketball's first great big man, and his recruitment from Archbishop Quigley Preparatory Seminary is a testament to Meyer's exceptional eye for talent.

The Rivalry That Defined Chicago Basketball

The intense basketball rivalry between DePaul and Loyola reached unprecedented heights during Meyer's tenure. This iconic rivalry not only captivated the city of Chicago but also produced some of the most memorable moments in college basketball history. Meyer's great-great-nephew, Mike Starkman, even played basketball for Loyola as a walk-on, adding a touch of family pride to the already fierce competition.

Awards, Accolades, and a Lasting Legacy

Meyer's contributions to the world of basketball were recognized with his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. His final game as a head coach was a testament to his enduring legacy, as the Blue Demons fell to Wake Forest in the NCAA Midwest Regional semifinals in 1984. Meyer's sons, Tom and Joey, followed in his footsteps, becoming NCAA Division I men's basketball head coaches in their own right.

A Summer Basketball Camp and a Wisconsin Retreat

Away from the bright lights of Chicago, Meyer operated a summer basketball camp near Three Lakes in northern Wisconsin, where he nurtured the next generation of basketball talent. This idyllic retreat served as a haven for Meyer, allowing him to recharge and refocus his energies on shaping the lives of countless young athletes.

A Life Well-Lived and a Legacy that Endures

Ray Meyer's remarkable life came full circle on March 17, 2006, when he passed away at the age of 92. Yet, his legacy continues to reverberate throughout the world of basketball, inspiring generations of coaches, players, and fans alike. Meyer's dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to the sport have cemented his place as one of the all-time greats, ensuring that his impact will be felt for years to come.

Timeline
1913
Born in Grosse Ile, Michigan
Ray Meyer was born on December 18, 1913, in Grosse Ile, Michigan, USA.
1930
Started Coaching Basketball
Meyer began his coaching career in the 1930s, eventually becoming one of the most successful college basketball coaches of all time.
1940
Coached DePaul University
Meyer coached DePaul Universitys mens basketball team in the 1940s and 1950s, leading the team to multiple NCAA tournament appearances.
1970
Retired from Coaching
Meyer retired from coaching in the 1970s, after a long and successful career that included over 700 wins.
2006
Passed Away at 92
Ray Meyer passed away on March 17, 2006, at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy as a legendary college basketball coach.
Ray Meyer

Ray Meyer Quiz

What college did Ray Meyer coach at for most of his career?

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FAQ
What was Ray Meyers most notable achievement as a college basketball coach?
Ray Meyers most notable achievement as a college basketball coach was leading DePaul University to two Final Four appearances and winning the 1945 NIT championship. He was known for his innovative coaching style and ability to develop players.
How did Ray Meyers coaching style influence the game of basketball?
Ray Meyers coaching style influenced the game of basketball by emphasizing fast-paced offense, aggressive defense, and strong player development. He was one of the first coaches to use game film and statistical analysis to improve his teams performance.
What awards did Ray Meyer receive for his coaching achievements?
Ray Meyer received numerous awards for his coaching achievements, including Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame induction, the Henry Iba Award, and the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Coach of the Year award.
How did Ray Meyers legacy continue after his retirement?
Ray Meyers legacy continued after his retirement through the many coaches and players he influenced during his career. He remained involved in the game, serving as a mentor and advisor to coaches and players.
What is Ray Meyers place in college basketball history?
Ray Meyers place in college basketball history is that of a pioneering coach who made significant contributions to the development of the game. He is remembered as one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history, known for his innovative style and commitment to his players.

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