This paper will be concerned with the controversial career of Bob Knight, head basketball coach at Indiana University. Knight is known for his bad temper and for throwing tantrums during games. He has often gotten himself into violent screaming matches with referees, players and fans. In addition, he has often been seen kicking or throwing things when he has been dissatisfied with the performance of his players. Despite such outbursts, however, Knight has developed an incredible record for winning. Furthermore, he has gained the respect of most of his players. Therefore, despite Knight's controversial reputation as a coach, he has clearly established himself as an authority on basketball and winning.
Bob Knight was born on October 25, 1940, in the town of Massillon, Ohio. In high school, Knight began developing a passion for sports. In addition, he was inspired by his own football coach to take an early interest in coaching as a career ("Knight," 1987, p. 315). However, when he began attending Ohio State University, Knight decided to major in education rather than athletics. It was at that time in his life that Knight began developing a lifetime commitment to academics as well as athletics. In a 1982 interview, Knight claimed that he expects as much from his players in the classroom as he does on the court (England, 1982, p. 163). If a student does not do well in school work, Knight does not allow that student to play on his team. Furthermore, Knight claimed that he has no tolerance for cheating or other dishonest behaviors among his players. In his opinion, any player caught engaging in unethical acts should be disqualified from playing without exception (England, 1982, p. 162). Knight's commitment to education has resulted in a high academic success rate among his players. Whereas the national average for college athletes who obtain their degrees is only 40 percent, for Knight the average has been an incredible 9...