Robert Montgomery Knight, better known as Bobby Knight or "the General", was a prominent figure in American men's college basketball. His coaching career was marked by a record-breaking 902 NCAA Division I victories, a feat unmatched at the time of his retirement and placing him sixth all-time in wins upon his death.
October 25, 1940: Birth of Bob Knight
On October 25, 1940, Robert Montgomery Knight, widely known as Bob Knight or "the General", was born. He would become a prominent figure in American college basketball coaching.
1958: Bob Knight Continues his Basketball Journey at Ohio State under Coach Fred Taylor
In 1958, Bob Knight continued his basketball career at Ohio State University under the guidance of legendary coach Fred Taylor, a future Hall of Fame inductee.
1960: Bob Knight's Ohio State Team Wins NCAA Championship
In 1960, Bob Knight was part of the Ohio State Buckeyes team that clinched the NCAA championship, a significant milestone in his playing career, even as a reserve player.
1961: Bob Knight Contributes to Ohio State's Championship Run Despite Limited Playing Time
Despite limited playing time due to the team's star-studded roster, Bob Knight made notable contributions during Ohio State's championship run in 1961, showcasing his basketball IQ and impact beyond scoring.
1962: Bob Knight Briefly Coaches High School Basketball After Graduating
After graduating from Ohio State University in 1962, Bob Knight briefly ventured into coaching at the high school level, taking on the role of junior varsity basketball coach at Cuyahoga Falls High School in Ohio.
1962: Bob Knight Graduates from Ohio State University
In 1962, Bob Knight graduated from Ohio State University with a degree in history and government, marking the completion of his undergraduate studies.
1962: Bob Knight and the Ohio State Buckeyes Fall Short in the NCAA Finals
In both 1961 and 1962, Bob Knight and his Ohio State Buckeyes teammates experienced the disappointment of losing in the NCAA championship games against the Cincinnati Bearcats, marking a challenging end to their quest for consecutive titles.
April 17, 1963: Marriage to Nancy Falk
On April 17, 1963, Bob Knight married Nancy Falk.
June 1963: Bob Knight Begins Military Service, Starts Coaching Journey
In June 1963, Bob Knight embarked on a period of military service, enlisting in the U.S. Army. While serving, he also accepted an assistant coaching position with the Army Black Knights basketball team, marking the start of his formal coaching career.
September 1963: Bob Knight Transfers to West Point During Military Service
In September 1963, during his time in the U.S. Army, Bob Knight was transferred to West Point, New York, the esteemed military academy. This move would prove significant as it marked the beginning of his association with the Army Black Knights basketball program.
1963: Bob Knight Embarks on Assistant Coaching Role with Army Black Knights
Bob Knight's association with the Army Black Knights basketball program began in 1963 when he took on an assistant coaching position, marking an early step in his coaching journey.
June 1965: Bob Knight Transitions to Army Reserves, Continues Coaching at West Point
In June 1965, Bob Knight transitioned from active duty in the U.S. Army to the U.S. Army Reserves, while simultaneously continuing his coaching role with the Army Black Knights at West Point.
1965: Bob Knight's First Head Coaching Position at Army
Bob Knight's head coaching journey began in 1965 with the Army Black Knights, where he honed his skills and developed a reputation as a demanding and successful coach.
1966: Bob Knight Displays Temper After NIT Semifinal Loss
In 1966, following a tough loss to BYU in the NIT semifinals, Bob Knight's fiery temper was on display as he reacted emotionally to the defeat. This incident highlighted his early struggles with controlling his emotions on the sidelines.
April 3, 1968: Bob Knight Offered, Then Declines Wisconsin Coaching Position
On April 3, 1968, Bob Knight was offered the head coaching position for the Wisconsin Badgers men's basketball team. However, after initially considering the offer, he ultimately declined, choosing to remain at West Point for three more seasons.
May 1969: Bob Knight Concludes Service in the U.S. Army Reserves
May 1969, marked the end of Bob Knight's service in the U.S. Army Reserves, allowing him to fully focus on his burgeoning coaching career.
1971: Bob Knight Begins Transformative Tenure at Indiana University
In 1971, Bob Knight's coaching career took a pivotal turn when he accepted the head coaching position at Indiana University Bloomington, embarking on a 29-year tenure that would redefine the program's legacy.
1971: Bob Knight Begins Coaching at Indiana University
In 1971, Bob Knight embarked on a significant chapter in his coaching career when he took the helm of the Indiana Hoosiers men's basketball program, a position he would hold for nearly three decades.
1972: Bob Knight Guides Indiana to Big Ten Championship in Second Season
In his second season as head coach of the Indiana Hoosiers in 1972-1973, Bob Knight quickly made his mark, leading the team to a Big Ten Conference championship, showcasing his ability to turn programs around.
1973: Confrontation with Blubaugh
During the 1970s, Bob Knight was involved in multiple controversies. In one instance, Knight had a confrontation with Douglas Blubaugh, the head wrestling coach, which resulted in Blubaugh physically pinning Knight against a wall.
1973: Indiana Hoosiers Reach Final Four but Fall to UCLA
In 1973, during Bob Knight's second year at the helm, the Indiana Hoosiers made an impressive run to the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament but were ultimately defeated by the dominant UCLA Bruins, who went on to win their seventh consecutive national title.
1973: Knight Named Big Ten Coach of the Year
Knight was named Big Ten Coach of the Year in 1973.
1973: Indiana Hoosiers Repeat as Big Ten Champions Under Bob Knight
The Indiana Hoosiers, led by Coach Bob Knight, replicated their success from the previous year by capturing back-to-back Big Ten Conference championships in the 1973-1974 season.
December 7, 1974: Physical Altercation with Joe B. Hall
On December 7, 1974, Indiana defeated Kentucky 98-74, but the game was overshadowed by Knight hitting Kentucky coach Joe B. Hall in the back of the head during an argument. The incident fueled the controversy surrounding Knight's temper and behavior.
1974: Don Fischer Begins as IU Radio Announcer
Don Fischer, a prominent figure in Indiana basketball broadcasting, began his tenure as an IU radio announcer in 1974. He would later become known for his long association with the program and his insights into Bob Knight's career.
1974: Undefeated Seasons and Big Ten Dominance
The Indiana Hoosiers basketball team, coached by Bob Knight, achieved remarkable success in 1974 and 1975 with undefeated regular seasons and a 37-game winning streak in the Big Ten. Their dominance was evident in their average margin of victory of 22.8 points in the Big Ten during the 1974-1975 season.
1975: Knight Named National Coach of the Year
Bob Knight was named National Coach of the Year in 1975, receiving the honor unanimously, and again in 1976 by the Associated Press. He also received Big Ten Coach of the Year in 1973, 1975, and 1976.
1975: Loss of Scott May and NCAA Tournament Run
Despite their undefeated regular season in 1974-1975, the Hoosiers faced a setback when star player Scott May suffered a broken arm. Despite May's limited playing time, they reached the Mideast Regional final but lost a close game to Kentucky. The team's dominance was still evident as four starters were named to the All-Big Ten team.
1975: The Perfect Season
The 1975-1976 Indiana Hoosiers, under Bob Knight, etched their place in college basketball history by going undefeated and winning the NCAA championship. This team remains the last undefeated NCAA Division I men's basketball team.
1975: Start of Indiana's Historic Undefeated Season
The 1975-1976 season marked the beginning of an unprecedented run for Bob Knight and the Indiana Hoosiers, as they embarked on a historic journey that would culminate in an undefeated season and a national championship.
1976: Undefeated Season and NCAA Championship Victory
The Hoosiers continued their dominance in the 1975-1976 season, remaining undefeated throughout the regular season and the NCAA tournament, culminating in an 86-68 victory over Michigan in the championship game. Knight's post-game remark, "it should have been two," highlighted the team's ambition and dominance.
1976: Indiana Hoosiers Secure First NCAA Championship Under Bob Knight
Under the leadership of Bob Knight, the Indiana Hoosiers celebrated a historic victory in 1976 by capturing their first-ever NCAA championship, solidifying his reputation as a coaching mastermind.
1976: Allegations of Physical Altercations
Knight faced allegations of physically confronting individuals associated with Indiana University. These included allegedly choking and punching sports information director Kit Klingelhoffer and physically manhandling player Jim Wisman.
1976: Indiana Hoosiers Achieve a Perfect Season and National Championship
In 1976, Bob Knight led the Indiana Hoosiers to an unprecedented achievement in men's Division I college basketball history: an undefeated season capped off with an NCAA championship, a feat that remains unmatched to this day.
1976: Knight Named National Coach of the Year by Associated Press
Bob Knight was named National Coach of the Year by the Associated Press in 1976. This marked his second consecutive year receiving this honor.
1979: Assault Charge at Pan American Games
While coaching the US basketball team at the 1979 Pan American Games, Knight was accused of assaulting a police officer. He was convicted in absentia but avoided extradition. This incident further tarnished Knight's reputation and raised questions about his behavior.
1979: Gold Medal at Pan American Games
Bob Knight added to his coaching accolades in 1979 by leading the United States basketball team to a gold medal victory at the Pan American Games in Puerto Rico.
1979: Big Ten Championship and NCAA Tournament Run
The 1979-1980 Hoosiers, with Mike Woodson and Isiah Thomas, continued Indiana's winning ways, securing the Big Ten championship and advancing to the Sweet Sixteen in the 1980 NCAA Tournament.
1979: NIT Champions
Led by Mike Woodson, Indiana secured the 1979 NIT championship, demonstrating their continued success on the court.
1980: Knight Named Big Ten Coach of the Year
Knight was named Big Ten Coach of the Year in 1980.
January 31, 1981: Isiah Thomas Altercation
During a game against Purdue, Isiah Thomas was involved in an altercation with Purdue guard Roosevelt Barnes. Initially portrayed as a "sucker punch" by Thomas, Knight defended his player, presenting video evidence that suggested Barnes had thrown the first punch.
February 7, 1981: "Jackass" Incident
Following up on the Isiah Thomas altercation, Knight used his weekly television show to address what he perceived as inappropriate chants directed at him, his wife, and Indiana University during the game at Purdue. Knight's decision to bring a donkey wearing a Purdue hat onto the show as a representation of Purdue University sparked further controversy.
1981: Indiana Hoosiers Clinch Second NCAA Championship with Bob Knight at the Helm
In 1981, Bob Knight guided the Indiana Hoosiers to their second NCAA championship, further solidifying the program's status as a national powerhouse and cementing his legacy as one of the sport's top coaches.
1981: Knight Named Big Ten Coach of the Year
In 1981, Knight was named Big Ten Coach of the Year.
1981: Second National Championship
The 1980-1981 Hoosiers, spearheaded by Isiah Thomas, added another glorious chapter to their history by winning both the Big Ten title and the NCAA Tournament, earning Bob Knight his second national title as a coach.
1983: Injury to Kitchel and Sweet Sixteen Loss
Despite being ranked No. 1 and considered favorites to win it all, the 1982-1983 Hoosiers experienced a major setback when Ted Kitchel suffered a mid-season injury. The team's championship aspirations were dashed with a loss to Kentucky in the Sweet Sixteen of the 1983 NCAA Tournament.
1984: Bob Knight Coaches the U.S. Men's Olympic Basketball Team to Gold
In 1984, Bob Knight added a prestigious accomplishment to his coaching resume by leading the United States men's Olympic basketball team to a gold medal victory, solidifying his status as a coaching icon.
1984: Olympic Gold Medal
In 1984, Bob Knight achieved the pinnacle of coaching success by guiding the U.S. national basketball team to a gold medal at the Summer Olympics. Notable players on that team included Michael Jordan and Steve Alford, Knight's former player from Indiana University.
February 23, 1985: Chair-Throwing Incident
During a game against Purdue, Knight was ejected after receiving three technical fouls. His outburst was triggered by a series of foul calls that he vehemently disagreed with, culminating in him throwing a chair across the court in frustration. The "chair-throwing incident" remains one of the most infamous moments of Knight's career.
1985: "A Season on the Brink" Publication
The 1985-1986 Indiana Hoosiers were featured in John Feinstein's best-selling book, "A Season on the Brink," which provided an in-depth look into the program and Knight's personality.
1985: John Feinstein Follows 1985-86 Indiana Hoosiers Season
John Feinstein closely followed the 1985-86 season of the Indiana Hoosiers men's basketball team, documenting their journey under Coach Bob Knight.
1985: Divorce from Nancy Falk
Bob Knight and Nancy Falk divorced in 1985.
1986: NCAA Adopts Three-Point Shot
In 1986, the NCAA adopted the three-point shot. Despite lifelong opposition, this rule change complemented Knight's offense well, and he sarcastically quipped that layups should be worth three points if the offense was efficient enough.
1986: "A Season on the Brink" Published
John Feinstein published "A Season on the Brink" in 1986, detailing the 1985-1986 Indiana Hoosiers season. This bestseller provided unprecedented access to the program and Knight's private life.
1987: Knight Receives Naismith Coach of the Year Award
Knight became the first recipient of the Naismith Coach of the Year Award in 1987, adding to his previous National Coach of the Year awards.
1987: Third National Championship Victory
Led by Steve Alford, the 1986-1987 Hoosiers captured a share of the Big Ten title and went on to win Knight's third national championship and Indiana's fifth. The championship game against Syracuse was decided by a memorable game-winning jump shot by Keith Smart in the closing seconds.
1987: Indiana Hoosiers Achieve Third NCAA Championship Victory under Bob Knight
The year 1987 marked another triumph for Bob Knight and the Indiana Hoosiers as they secured their third NCAA championship, a testament to his coaching prowess and the program's sustained excellence.
1987: Supreme Court Ruling and Apology
A 1987 Supreme Court decision changed the legal landscape surrounding extradition, potentially impacting Knight's situation. Knight subsequently apologized for the 1979 incident in a letter to the President of the Puerto Rico Olympic Committee.
April 1988: "Rape" Comment
During an interview, Knight made an offensive comment about rape, stating, "I think that if rape is inevitable, relax and enjoy it." This statement sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, drawing intense criticism from women's groups and the general public.
1988: Marriage to Karen Vieth Edgar
In 1988, Bob Knight married Karen Vieth Edgar, a former Oklahoma high school basketball coach.
1988: Big Ten Championship
With All-American Jay Edwards leading the charge, the 1988-1989 Indiana Hoosiers continued their winning ways by securing the Big Ten championship.
1989: Allegations of Abuse by Todd Jadlow
Former Indiana player Todd Jadlow published a book accusing Knight of physical and emotional abuse during his time with the team, including punching, hitting with a clipboard, and other forms of physical assault. These allegations further fueled the debate surrounding Knight's coaching methods and his treatment of players.
1989: Knight Earns Multiple National Coach of the Year Honors
In 1989, Knight received National Coach of the Year honors from the AP, UPI, and the US Basketball Writers Association. This marked the fourth time he received this prestigious award.
1990: Start of a Successful Three-Year Span
The period from 1990 to 1993 marked a highly successful era for the Indiana Hoosiers under Bob Knight's leadership. They achieved 87 victories, the most by any Big Ten team in a three-year span at the time.
1990: "Hoosier Honor: Bob Knight and Academic Success at Indiana University" Published
Robert P. Sulek published "Hoosier Honor: Bob Knight and Academic Success at Indiana University" in 1990. The book highlights the academic achievements of players under Knight's leadership.
1990: "Playing for Knight: My Six Seasons with Bobby Knight" Published
Steve Alford, a former player under Knight, published his book "Playing for Knight: My Six Seasons with Bobby Knight" in 1990.
1991: Knight Inducted into Basketball Hall of Fame
In 1991, Bob Knight was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame, a testament to his successful coaching career.
1991: Bob Knight's Induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
In recognition of his remarkable achievements in basketball, Bob Knight was formally inducted into the prestigious Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1991, cementing his place among the sport's all-time greats.
1991: Two Big Ten Crowns and a Final Four Appearance
The Hoosiers secured two Big Ten championships in 1990-1991 and 1992-1993, and in the 1991-1992 season, they advanced to the Final Four.
1991: Son Pat Knight Begins Playing at Indiana
Bob Knight's son, Pat, began playing basketball at Indiana University in 1991.
1992: Knight Named Big Ten Coach of the Year
Knight was named Big Ten Coach of the Year in 1992.
1992: Indiana Hoosiers' Championship Aspirations Cut Short in Final Four Loss
The 1992 NCAA Tournament saw Bob Knight lead the Indiana Hoosiers back to the Final Four, only to have their championship aspirations dashed once again as they suffered a semifinal defeat.
1993: Knight Named Big Ten Coach of the Year
Knight received Big Ten Coach of the Year in 1993.
1993: Last Conference Championship
The year 1993 marked the end of an era for Bob Knight, as it was his final conference championship win as a coach.
1994: Final Sweet Sixteen Appearance
In 1994, Bob Knight coached his team to his last Sweet Sixteen appearance, marking a turning point in his career.
1994: "Blue Chips" Movie Released
The movie "Blue Chips," released in 1994, featured a character inspired by Bob Knight named Pete Bell. Knight himself makes an appearance in this film about college basketball recruitment.
1995: Son Pat Knight's Indiana Basketball Career Ends
Pat Knight's basketball career at Indiana University ended in 1995.
1996: Program Improvement at Texas Tech
When Bob Knight began coaching at Texas Tech, the basketball program had not participated in an NCAA tournament since 1996. Knight's leadership quickly turned the program around, leading them to postseason appearances in his initial four years.
1997: Alleged Choking Incident
In 1997, an incident allegedly occurred during an Indiana practice where Bob Knight was accused of choking player Neil Reed. This incident came to light in 2000 and became a significant controversy in Knight's career.
March 14, 2000: Allegations of Choking Incident Surface
On March 14, 2000, CNN Sports Illustrated aired a report alleging that Bob Knight had choked former player Neil Reed during a practice in 1997. While Knight denied these claims, a videotape later surfaced seemingly supporting Reed's allegations.
September 2000: Dismissal from Indiana University
In September 2000, following a series of complaints and a "zero tolerance" policy implemented by Indiana University president Myles Brand regarding Knight's behavior, Knight was dismissed from his coaching position. The dismissal was met with outrage from students, who protested in support of Knight.
2000: Bob Knight Dismissed from Indiana University
In the fall of 2000, following a string of controversies and the implementation of a "zero tolerance" policy specifically aimed at his conduct, Bob Knight was dismissed from his position as head coach of the Indiana Hoosiers.
2000: Bob Knight's Tenure at Indiana University Ends
In 2000, Bob Knight's long and successful tenure as head coach of the Indiana Hoosiers came to an end. His departure followed a series of controversies and a university investigation into his behavior.
2001: Knight Donates to Texas Tech Library
Bob Knight donated $10,000 to the Texas Tech library in 2001, the first donation to what would become the Coach Knight Library Fund. His wife also donated $25,000.
2001: Bob Knight Returns to Coaching at Texas Tech
In 2001, Bob Knight made his return to coaching after a year away from the sidelines, taking on the head coaching role at Texas Tech University.
2002: "A Season on the Brink" Film Adaptation Released
ESPN released "A Season on the Brink," a film adaptation of John Feinstein's book, in 2002, starring Brian Dennehy as Bob Knight.
August 2003: Knight Becomes First Inductee into The Vince Lombardi Titletown Legends
In August 2003, Knight was honored as the inaugural inductee into The Vince Lombardi Titletown Legends.
2003: "Knight: My Story" Published
Bob Knight, in collaboration with Bob Hammel, released his autobiography, "Knight: My Story," in 2003.
2003: Cameo Appearance in "Anger Management"
In 2003, Bob Knight made a cameo appearance as himself in the film "Anger Management."
2005: Pat Knight Named Head Coach Designate
In 2005, Pat Knight, Bob Knight's son, was named the head coach designate for the Texas Tech basketball team. This decision indicated the plan for Pat to succeed his father when Bob Knight decided to retire.
2005: Knight Donates Additional Funds to Library
Bob Knight donated an additional $40,000 to the Texas Tech library in 2005.
2005: Sweet Sixteen Appearance with Texas Tech
Bob Knight's most successful season with Texas Tech came in 2005 when he led the Red Raiders to the Sweet Sixteen of the NCAA tournament.
March 2006: Incident at Baylor University
In March 2006, Bob Knight was involved in an incident at Baylor University where a student's heckling led to Knight needing to be restrained by a police officer. The Big 12 Conference did not take any disciplinary action due to the incident's lack of severity.
November 13, 2006: Allegation of Physical Contact with Player
On November 13, 2006, Bob Knight was accused of physically confronting player Michael Prince during a game. While footage showed Knight making contact with Prince's chin, Knight, Prince, and Texas Tech athletic director Gerald Myers asserted that Knight was merely lifting Prince's chin to encourage him.
November 17, 2006: Knight Inducted into National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame
Recognizing his profound impact on college basketball, Bob Knight was inducted into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame on November 17, 2006.
2006: A Difficult Season and Postseason Success
Texas Tech experienced a challenging season in 2006, but they bounced back in 2007, achieving a 21-13 record and securing a spot in the NCAA tournament. Notably, under Knight's leadership, Texas Tech defeated two Top 10-ranked teams in consecutive weeks in both 2006 and 2007.
January 1, 2007: Knight Achieves 880th Win
On January 1, 2007, Knight secured his 880th career win, surpassing Dean Smith for most career victories at the time.
October 21, 2007: Allegation of Shotgun Incident
On October 21, 2007, a resident of Lubbock, Texas, named James Simpson accused Bob Knight of firing a shotgun in his direction after a dispute about hunting too close to Simpson's property. Although Knight denied the allegation, a recording of their argument surfaced.
November 29, 2007: Texas Tech Library Honors Knight with "A Legacy of Giving" Exhibit
On November 29, 2007, the Texas Tech library opened "A Legacy of Giving: The Bob Knight Exhibit." This was in recognition of donations made by Knight, beginning in 2001, to the Coach Knight Library Fund.
2007: Bob Knight Steps Down Mid-Season at Texas Tech
During the 2007-2008 season, Bob Knight made the decision to retire from coaching before the season concluded, marking the end of his tenure at Texas Tech.
2007: Texas Tech's NCAA Tournament Appearance Gives Knight Most Appearances
In 2007, Knight's Texas Tech team participated in the NCAA tournament, making it his most tournament appearance as a coach. He's the only coach to win the NCAA, NIT, an Olympic Gold, and Pan American Games Gold.
2007: Return to the NCAA Tournament and Notable Wins
In 2007, Bob Knight guided Texas Tech back to the NCAA tournament, highlighting the team's improvement. They faced a first-round loss against Boston College. In both 2006 and 2007, Texas Tech, under Knight's guidance, achieved significant victories against two Top 10-ranked teams in consecutive weeks.
January 16, 2008: 900th Career Win
On January 16, 2008, Bob Knight celebrated a significant milestone by achieving his 900th career win as a basketball coach. The victory came in a game against Texas A&M.
February 4, 2008: Retirement from Coaching
After a long and successful coaching career, Bob Knight announced his retirement on February 4, 2008. His son, Pat Knight, who had been designated as his successor, immediately took over as head coach of Texas Tech.
2008: Volkswagen Commercial Appearance
Bob Knight appeared in a Volkswagen commercial in 2008, part of the "Das Auto" series. In the commercial, he is interviewed by "Max," a 1964 black Beetle. When Knight mentioned Volkswagen winning a resale value award that year, Max quipped, "At least one of us is winning a title this year." Knight, seemingly taking offense, threw his chair and walked off set.
2008: Joins ESPN as Analyst
Following his retirement from coaching in 2008, Bob Knight joined ESPN as a studio analyst and occasional color commentator for basketball games.
2008: Bob Knight Joins ESPN as College Basketball Analyst
Following his retirement from coaching in 2008, Bob Knight transitioned to a new role as a college basketball analyst for ESPN, providing expert commentary and analysis during Championship Week and the NCAA Tournament.
2008: Bob Knight Retires from Coaching
In 2008, Bob Knight concluded his coaching career while at Texas Tech, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most accomplished and controversial figures in college basketball history.
2008: Bob Knight Retires from Coaching, Succeeded by Son at Texas Tech
In 2008, Bob Knight stepped down from his coaching position at Texas Tech, marking the end of his illustrious yet often turbulent career. His son, Pat Knight, succeeded him as head coach of the Red Raiders.
2008: Knight Inducted into Army Sports Hall of Fame
In 2008, Knight was inducted into the Army Sports Hall of Fame.
2009: Instructional Coaching DVDs Released
Bob Knight partnered with Championship Productions in 2009 to produce three instructional coaching DVD libraries. The DVDs focused on motion offense, man-to-man defense, and instilling mental toughness.
2009: Knight Inducted into Indiana Hoosiers Athletics Hall of Fame
Knight was inducted into the Indiana Hoosiers Athletics Hall of Fame in 2009.
April 18, 2011: Knight Makes and Retracts Controversial Comments About Kentucky Basketball
On April 18, 2011, a video surfaced of Bob Knight commenting about coach John Calipari and the Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball team. In the video, Knight alleged that Kentucky's Elite Eight appearance the previous season included "five players who had not attended a single class that semester." These claims were disproven by the university and the players in question. Knight subsequently apologized for the comments, saying that his issue was with the "one-and-done" trend in college basketball rather than Kentucky or its players specifically.
November 15, 2011: Krzyzewski Surpasses Knight's Win Total
Mike Krzyzewski surpassed Knight's win total on November 15, 2011.
November 2012: Calls First Indiana Game for ESPN
Breaking from his previous stance, Bob Knight agreed to call an Indiana men's basketball game for ESPN in November 2012. This marked a significant moment as he had previously refused to be involved in broadcasting Indiana games.
January 2, 2013: Boeheim Surpasses Knight's Win Total
Jim Boeheim's win total surpassed Knight's on January 2, 2013.
2013: "The Power of Negative Thinking: An Unconventional Approach to Achieving Positive Results" Published
Knight and Bob Hammel co-authored "The Power of Negative Thinking: An Unconventional Approach to Achieving Positive Results," published in 2013. The book explores Knight's approach to game preparation, emphasizing anticipating potential problems.
2014: Bob Knight Concludes his time as ESPN Analyst
Bob Knight's tenure as a college basketball analyst for ESPN came to a close after the 2014–15 season, marking the end of his time providing commentary and analysis for the network.
April 2, 2015: Contract with ESPN Not Renewed
On April 2, 2015, ESPN made the announcement that they would not be renewing their contract with Bob Knight, ending his tenure as a basketball analyst for the network.
2016: Knight Supports Donald Trump for President
Bob Knight publicly supported Donald Trump's 2016 presidential campaign.
2016: "Days of Knight: How the General Changed My Life" Published
In 2016, former player Kirk Haston published "Days of Knight: How the General Changed My Life".
March 2017: Expresses No Interest in Returning to Indiana
During an interview on The Dan Patrick Show in March 2017, Bob Knight expressed no desire to return to Indiana University. He made controversial comments regarding the administration that had fired him 17 years prior.
2017: "Following the General: Why Three Coaches Have Been Unable to Return Indiana Basketball to Greatness" Published
"Following the General: Why Three Coaches Have Been Unable to Return Indiana Basketball to Greatness" by Terry Hutchens, published in 2017, examines Knight's enduring coaching legacy at Indiana and why his successors haven't replicated his success.
2018: Knight Appears at Trump Rally
Bob Knight appeared at a rally for then-President Donald Trump during the 2018 midterm elections. At the rally, Knight called Trump "a great defender of the United States of America."
February 27, 2019: Reports of Declining Health
Concerns about Bob Knight's health emerged on February 27, 2019, when Don Fischer, a longtime IU radio announcer, revealed in an interview that Knight's health had been declining, without disclosing specific details.
April 4, 2019: Bob Knight's First Public Appearance After Fischer's Comments
On April 4, 2019, Bob Knight made his first public appearance since Fischer's comments, appearing with journalist Bob Hammel. During this appearance, Knight exhibited signs of struggling with his memory, such as re-introducing his wife shortly after doing so and mistakenly stating Landon Turner had died.
July 10, 2019: Bob Knight Returns to Bloomington
Reported on July 10, 2019, by the Indiana Daily Student, Bob Knight and his wife purchased a home in Bloomington, suggesting a return to his former coaching grounds.
February 8, 2020: Return to Assembly Hall
On February 8, 2020, Bob Knight made a significant return to Assembly Hall, the home of Indiana basketball, for the first time since his dismissal 20 years prior. He received a standing ovation from the crowd.
March 11, 2021: Roy Williams Surpasses Knight's Win Total
On March 11, 2021, Roy Williams' win total surpassed Knight's.
November 1, 2023: Death of Bob Knight
On November 1, 2023, Bob Knight, the legendary American basketball coach, passed away. He left behind a legacy as one of the winningest coaches in NCAA history, known for his strategic prowess and often controversial coaching style.