05/14/2026
My blog from longtime college and NBA coach Bob Staak.
Todd,
Please find below the answers to the questions you sent me. I hope it is what you were looking forward and i helps you in any way. I also have attached my resume for your use.
How is the game of basketball different from when you played?
The game is much faster and more athletic than when I played. The players are bigger, stronger, well conditioned, and athletic than they were when I played. I also think that the players were fundamentally more sound when I played than they are today.
How is the game of basketball different from when you first started coaching?
When I started coaching there was much more zone used than there is today, on all levels. I also think, as when I played, that the players and teams were much more sound fundamentally than they are today. I believe that is because fundamentals are not taught as much today because of AAU basketball.
What years did you play? Levels? First coaching job?
I played my freshman year at St John's (NY) in 1966-67 and played at UConn from 1968-71. I signed a contract with the Pittsburgh Condors of the ABA and was with them briefly in 1971-72. I played in the New York Professional League for the balance of the 1971-72 season before retiring from playing and starting my college coaching career. During the 1971-72 season while playing in the above, I coached in high school at East Hartford HS in Connecticut. The next year I accepted a job at my alma mater, UConn, as an assistant coach for two years.
Who is currently is & was your biggest influence in game?
The two biggest influences in my basketball career were my college coach, Dee Rowe and Chuck Daly, who hired me as an assistant coach at the University of Pennsylvania. I was also influenced in the pro game by Chuck, Kevin Loughery, Jim Lynam, and Don Casey.
What skill are you looking for in a collegiate player that translates well to the NBA game?
Basically, I look for any skill that would translate to the NBA game but because of the way the game is played in the NBA today, I am always looking for players who can shoot the ball and particularly ones who can stretch the defense.
What are you seeing as trends in game that hurt it? and that have improved it?
The one trend that is hurting the game of basketball today is players lack of fundamentals and how to play the game the right way. I think the shot clock and the 3 point line have improved the game for a number of reasons.
If you could impact one part of game, what would that be?
To impact the game, I would examine changing the rules concerning defense.
How do we get the big man back into the game? More so, back inside showing #'s posting,etc. Or is that gone completely?
The big man is still involved in the game but in this day and time he is called a "stretch big". This meaning he must have the ability to play on the perimeter and shoot the perimeter shot because the game is played by spreading the floor with the offense and driving the ball and kicking to open shooters. The post big who would play with his back to the basket is basically nonexistent in today's game. Will it reemerge?? It could but I would tend to doubt it.
Your current resume and current position?
My current position is personnel scout for the Miami Heat and I have attached my resume to this email.
I hope this was what you were looking for.
Best wishes,
Bob Staak
