93-Year-Old Basketball Legend Tynes Hildebrand to Receive Prestigious Don Landry Award

Tynes Hildebrand, a 93-year-old basketball icon from Louisiana, will be honored with the esteemed Don Landry Award by the Louisiana Association of Basketball Coaches (LABC) on May 4, 2024. The award recognizes Hildebrand's distinguished service and significant contributions to the sport over an impressive eight decades as a player, coach, athletics director, and NCAA officials observer.

Hildebrand's immersion in basketball dates back to the 1940s, during which he forged friendships and collaborated with legendary coaches such as Henry Iba, John Wooden, Bob Knight, and Don Haskins. As the head coach at Northwestern State, Hildebrand played a crucial role in founding the LABC half a century ago.

Over the course of his illustrious career, Hildebrand dedicated 16 seasons as the head coach of the Northwestern State Demons before retiring in 1981. However, his passion for the sport led him to return as the athletics director, a position he held for 13 years. Additionally, Hildebrand served as an NCAA Division I officials evaluator for 17 seasons and was among the first four NCAA regional officiating supervisors.

Why this matters: Tynes Hildebrand's lifelong dedication to basketball has left an enduring mark on the sport in Louisiana. The LABC's decision to honor him with the Don Landry Award, named after the organization's founding father, emphasizes the profound impact Hildebrand has had on generations of players, coaches, and officials.

The LABC's recognition of Hildebrand's lifelong dedication and impact on basketball in Louisiana through the Don Landry Award serves as a testament to his lasting legacy. "Tynes Hildebrand's contributions to the sport of basketball in our state are immeasurable," said a representative of the LABC. "His passion, knowledge, and commitment have shaped the lives of countless individuals within the basketball community."

Key Takeaways

• Tynes Hildebrand, 93, to receive Don Landry Award from LABC on May 4, 2024.
• Hildebrand has 8 decades of service as player, coach, AD, and NCAA officials observer.
• Hildebrand was head coach at Northwestern State for 16 years, later served as AD.
• Hildebrand was among the first 4 NCAA regional officiating supervisors for 17 seasons.
• LABC honors Hildebrand's profound impact on basketball in Louisiana through the award.