Kurland attended Oklahoma A&M College, now known as Oklahoma State University, where he played under coach Henry Iba. His college career spanned from 1942 to 1946, during which he led the Aggies to two consecutive NCAA championships in 1945 and 1946. Kurland's presence on the court was a game-changer, as he was one of the first players to regularly use the dunk as a scoring method. His ability to dominate the paint and protect the rim was unparalleled at the time.
During his tenure at Oklahoma A&M, Kurland was a three-time All-American, a testament to his skill and influence on the game. His performance in the 1945 NCAA tournament was particularly impressive, as he scored 22 points in the championship game against New York University, leading his team to a 49-45 victory. The following year, he repeated his success by scoring 23 points in the final against North Carolina, securing a 43-40 win for the Aggies.
Kurland's impact on the game extended beyond his scoring ability. He was instrumental in popularizing the goaltending rule, as his height and timing allowed him to block shots with ease. This led to the NCAA implementing a rule change to prevent defensive players from interfering with shots on their downward trajectory.
After his college career, Kurland chose not to pursue a professional basketball career in the newly formed Basketball Association of America (BAA) or the National Basketball Association (NBA). Instead, he played for the Phillips 66ers, an Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) team sponsored by the Phillips Petroleum Company. The AAU was a popular alternative to professional basketball at the time, and Kurland's decision to play for the 66ers allowed him to maintain his amateur status.
Kurland's time with the Phillips 66ers was marked by continued success. He helped lead the team to several AAU championships and was named an AAU All-American multiple times. His presence on the court continued to be a dominant force, and he remained a key player for the 66ers throughout his tenure with the team.
In addition to his achievements in college and AAU basketball, Kurland also represented the United States in international competition. He was a member of the U.S. men's basketball team that won the gold medal at the 1948 Summer Olympics in London. Kurland's performance in the Olympics further solidified his reputation as one of the top players of his era.
Bob Kurland's basketball career is remembered for his towering presence and his role in shaping the game during its formative years. His decision to remain an amateur and play for the Phillips 66ers, rather than joining a professional league, set him apart from many of his contemporaries.
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