After graduating in 1927, Iba took his first coaching job at Classen High School in Oklahoma City. His coaching career quickly progressed, and by 1929, he was the head coach at Northwest Missouri State Teachers College. Iba's coaching philosophy was heavily influenced by discipline and defense, principles that would define his teams throughout his career.
In 1934, Iba became the head coach at Oklahoma A&M (now Oklahoma State University), a position he would hold for 36 years. Under his guidance, the Oklahoma A&M Aggies became a powerhouse in college basketball. Iba's teams were known for their strong defensive play and methodical offense, often referred to as "Iba ball." His coaching style emphasized fundamentals, teamwork, and a deliberate pace, which often frustrated opponents and led to numerous victories.
Iba's tenure at Oklahoma A&M was marked by significant achievements. He led the Aggies to NCAA championships in 1945 and 1946, making them the first team to win back-to-back titles. His 1945 team was particularly dominant, finishing the season with a 27-4 record. Iba's success at the collegiate level earned him a reputation as one of the best coaches in the country.
Beyond college basketball, Iba also made a name for himself on the international stage. He served as the head coach for the United States men's basketball team in three Olympic Games: 1964 in Tokyo, 1968 in Mexico City, and 1972 in Munich. Under his leadership, the U.S. team won gold medals in 1964 and 1968. The 1972 Olympics, however, ended in controversy when the U.S. team lost to the Soviet Union in a highly disputed final game, marking the first time the U.S. did not win gold in Olympic basketball.
Iba's influence extended beyond his own teams. He was a mentor to many future coaches, including Eddie Sutton and Don Haskins, who would go on to have successful coaching careers themselves. Iba's coaching tree is a testament to his ability to teach and inspire others in the sport.
Throughout his career, Iba received numerous accolades. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1969, recognizing his contributions to the game. In 1987, the Henry P. Iba Citizen Athlete Awards were established in his honor, celebrating athletes who excel in their sport and demonstrate high moral character.
Henry Iba retired from coaching in 1970, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and innovation in basketball.
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