Jim Hinga
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Fort Wayne, Indiana, U.S.
Naples, Florida, U.S.
 Hinga from the 1964 Orient | |
| Biographical details | |
|---|---|
| Born | December 17, 1923 Fort Wayne, Indiana, U.S. |
| Died | March 11, 2002 (aged 78) Naples, Florida, U.S. |
| Playing career | |
| 1944–1946 | Purdue |
| Position(s) | Guard |
| Coaching career (HC unless noted) | |
| 1954–1968 | Ball State |
Jim Hinga (December 17, 1923 – March 11, 2002) was an American college basketball coach. Hinga coached Ball State University from 1954 to 1968 and compiled a 154–169 career mark, which is still a school record for victories. He also was an assistant football and track coach and Ball State's manager of physical education and athletic facilities and services from 1969 to 1981.
High school
Hinga helped his team to a three-year record of 21–2–2 (.920). In his junior season in 1939–40, he was named an all-state football end while leading the Redskins to the Associated Press and United Press International state title. His teammate, Robert Cowan,[1] would go on to a three-year career in the National Football League. Hinga was also a member of the two-time IHSAA state champion track and field team and won the 440-yard race.
College
He attended Purdue University and played football and track as a freshman during the 1942–43 school year. Hinga then joined the United States Air Force during World War II. He returned to Purdue in the fall of 1944 then played basketball for head coach Piggy Lambert. Two teammates who would go on to successful playing careers were Paul Hoffman and Howie Williams.