Phil Woolpert Hall of Fame NBA

Phil Woolpert was a courageous visionary whose defensive mastery and social leadership forever changed the landscape of basketball. Best known for his tenure at the University of San Francisco, Woolpert guided the Dons to back-to-back NCAA championships in 1955 and 1956. At just 40 years old, he became the youngest coach to win a national title, anchoring his teams with legendary players like Bill Russell and K.C. Jones.

Beyond his tactical brilliance, Woolpert was a pioneer of integration, famously starting three Black players during an era of deep-seated racial tension. Under his direction, San Francisco achieved a then-record 60-game winning streak, establishing a dynasty built on unselfish play and elite conditioning. He later coached the San Francisco Saints in the American Basketball League, bringing his disciplined approach to the professional ranks.

For his championship success and his role as a social trailblazer, Woolpert was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1992.

Woolpert's Awards and Records

• 2× NCAA National Champion (1955, 1956)
• 2× UPI National Coach of the Year (1955, 1956)
• 4× WCAC Coach of the Year (1955–1958)
• Youngest coach to win an NCAA title (Age 40)
• 1956 Season: Undefeated (29–0)
• Inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame (2006)

NBA Teams

San Francisco (1950–1959)
San Diego (1962–1969)