Will Robinson, 1911-2008

Update: May 4, 2008 -- "Legendary Robinson was a dignified trail blazer", by Jerry Green of The Detroit News.

A great man, Mr. Will Robinson, passed away at 12:45 Monday morning (Detroit time). Mr. Robinson was 96 years of age.

You may ask who was Will Robinson?

Will Robinson was a man of many, many firsts; and, he touched countless people throughout his fantastic life.

This title in The Detroit News is a good description of Mr. Robinson: "Basketball pioneer, former Pistons scout, was a legend".

He was the first African-American coach in the Detroit Public Schools and first NCAA Division I head coach when he guided Illinois State (1970-75).

He led Detroit Pershing to state championships in 1967 -- a legendary team that featured Ralph Simpson and Spencer Haywood, who was Robinson's adopted son -- and '70.

Robinson was an NBA and NFL scout. He was a journalist, and he sold nickel pies during the Great Depression.

I've been a Detroit Pistons fan for about 22 years; so, I've definitely heard and learned about Mr. Robinson's numerous accomplishments in that time. In fact, I had the tremendous honor of meeting him a few years ago.

The Houston Rockets were still playing their games at Compaq Center; and, Mr. Robinson was at the game. I don't remember who the Rockets were playing that night; but, I clearly remember speaking with Mr. Robinson. He didn't know me from Adam; but, we spoke for a few minutes late during halftime while going over the first half stats.

My night was made; yet, as he was leaving to go to his seat, Mr. Robinson thanked me for my time. I was stunned; but, I did manage to thank him for his time and I wished him the best.

Thank you, Mr. Robinson, for everything you did in your life. God Bless.