Bob Kurland: An OSU Basketball Legend

On December 18, 1944, college basketball saw its first dunk—and it was an Oklahoma A&M Aggie player from right here in Stillwater that forever changed the game! On that day, Bob "Foothills" Kurland, a 6-foot-10-inch center for Oklahoma A&M (now Oklahoma State University), unintentionally made basketball history during a game against Temple University.

As Kurland recalled, “The ball happened to be under the basket. I stuffed it in. It wasn’t planned, just a spontaneous play.” This accidental dunk became the origin of one of the game’s most iconic moves.

A Dominant Force on the Court

Bob Kurland’s impact on the sport extended far beyond that single moment. Playing under legendary coach Henry Iba, Kurland led Oklahoma A&M to back-to-back national championships in 1945 and 1946. He was twice named the NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player, cementing his status as one of college basketball’s first true stars.

Over the course of Kurland’s four-year career, the Aggies compiled an impressive 99-22 record. His dominance under the basket redefined defensive play, as he routinely blocked shots with ease—leading to the NCAA’s decision to implement the goaltending rule to curb his overwhelming impact. In one iconic performance against in-state rival Oklahoma, Kurland recorded 17 blocked shots in a single game, including 10 in the first half.

Teaming Up with Coach Iba

Kurland was born and raised in Jennings, MO where he played high school basketball. Once made aware of Kurland's interest, Coach Hank Iba sent him a train ticket to come for a one-week try out at Oklahoma A&M University. At the end of the tryout period, Coach Iba called the remaining candidates into his office one at a time for a frank conversation about his perception of their potential. Kurland recalls Iba saying, “Bob, I don’t know whether you can play college basketball or not, but if you want to work on it and follow the rules and give me everything that you’ve got to work with, I’ll help you get through college.” I said, “That sounds like a good deal to me. He and I became warm friends and had good success."

Iba, known for his disciplined, no-nonsense approach to the game, was a perfect match for Kurland's talent and work ethic. Iba was one of the most respected coaches of his time and helped mold Kurland into a dominant player and pioneer of the sport.

From Stillwater to Olympic Gold

Kurland never played in the professional leagues, instead joining the Phillips 66ers, an A.A.U. powerhouse team sponsored by Phillips Petroleum. Over six years, Kurland led the 66ers to three championships, all while maintaining his amateur status.

This decision paved the way for him to represent the United States on the international stage. Kurland became the first basketball player to win two Olympic gold medals, leading Team USA to victories in both the 1948 London Olympics and the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. In 1952, Kurland’s achievements were further honored when he carried the U.S. flag during the opening ceremony.

A Lasting Legacy in Stillwater

Bob Kurland’s contributions to basketball were groundbreaking, but his story is also deeply tied to Stillwater’s legacy as a hub of athletic excellence. In addition to being enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Kurland’s memory lives on at Oklahoma State University.

Visitors can explore his story—and the stories of other Cowboy and Cowgirl greats—at the Heritage Hall Museum, located inside Gallagher-Iba Arena. Heritage Hall is a treasure trove of OSU’s athletic history, showcasing the legends who made Stillwater synonymous with sports greatness.

Experience Stillwater’s Basketball Legacy Today

Today, Oklahoma State Cowboy basketball continues to honor the traditions forged by players like Bob Kurland. Gallagher-Iba Arena, known as the “Madison Square Garden of the Plains,” remains one of the most electric venues in college basketball. Attending a Cowboy basketball game offers fans a chance to witness the next generation of stars while connecting with a storied past.

Beyond the arena, Stillwater invites visitors to explore its vibrant community. Stroll through historic downtown streets, visit local shops and eateries, and experience why Stillwater is called America’s Friendliest College Town.

Celebrate Bob Kurland’s legacy, relive the history of the first college basketball dunk, and create your own unforgettable memories in Stillwater, Oklahoma. 

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