Legendary Coach Ray Meyer: The Heart and Soul of DePaul Basketball
When you talk about the greats in Illinois basketball, Ray Meyer’s name belongs at the top of the list. A true icon of the game, Meyer coached DePaul University for 42 seasons and left a legacy that continues to inspire players, coaches, and fans across the country. His presence on the sidelines wasn’t just commanding—it was magnetic.
A Historic Start to a Legendary Career
Ray Meyer took over as head coach of the Blue Demons in 1942 and made an immediate impact. In his very first season, he led DePaul to the NCAA Final Four, a sign of success.
In 1945, with only three years on the job, Meyer led the Blue Demons to the NIT championship defeating Bowling Green 71-54. Over the next four decades, Meyer would lead the program to 724 victories and 21 postseason appearances, including two Final Fours.
His consistency, court vision, and ability to build winning teams year after year made him one of the most respected coaches in the game. But numbers only tell part of the story.
A Coach Who Taught More Than Basketball
Meyer’s coaching style was defined by integrity, discipline, and genuine care for his players. He wasn’t just a coach—he was a mentor. His philosophy emphasized fundamentals, teamwork, and personal development, producing great athletes and people.
Among his most famous players were George Mikan, a pioneer of modern basketball, and Mark Aguirre, who would star in the NBA. Meyer’s ability to adapt and connect across generations helped shape not only the DePaul program but also the identity of Illinois basketball.
Elevating the Game in Chicago and Beyond
Ray Meyer didn’t just build a team—he elevated a city. During the 1970s and 80s, DePaul games became must-watch television, bringing Chicago basketball to a national audience. Meyer turned DePaul into a powerhouse and inspired a new generation of fans, players, and coaches.
His induction into the IBCA Hall of Fame in 1974 and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1979 solidified his place among the game’s legends. Ray is one of the fewer than 20 people in the IBCA HOF in two categories: player and coach. Coach Meyer’s sons are also in the IBCA Hall of Fame. Tom, a coach, and Joey, a player.
Honoring Ray Meyer’s Lasting Legacy
The Basketball Museum of Illinois proudly celebrates Ray Meyer’s remarkable contributions to the sport. His influence stretches far beyond DePaul’s campus, touching every corner of the basketball community in Illinois and beyond.
Visit our Hall of Fame to learn more about Ray Meyer and the countless others who helped shape the game we love.
Related Articles
Illinois Basketball Hall of Fame Explained: Who Gets In and Why It Matters
The Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame does more than honor great careers. It preserves the game’s story across the state and recognizes the people who helped shape it.
For many fans, players, and families, the Hall of Fame can feel larger than life.Its purpose is simple. It exists to celebrate excellence, leadership, service, and the lasting impact basketball has had on Illinois communities. At the Basketball Museum of Illinois, the Hall of Fame stands as one of the clearest ways that mission comes to life.
Doc Rivers and Candace Parker Earn Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Induction
Two Illinois legends, Doc Rivers and Candace Parker, have been selected for induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Both are proud members of the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame, further reinforcing Illinois’ deep impact on the game at every level.
Be A Better Coach: Marty Gaughan on Developing People First
Great coaches do more than teach plays. They shape habits, set standards, and help young people grow into confident, capable adults. That belief sits at the center of Be A Better Coach, the book by longtime Illinois coach and educator Marty Gaughan.