It is with great sadness that we report the death of Bob Basarich, former Lockport HS basketball coach. Coach Basarich passed away on Tuesday 8th November 2022. The news of his passing was first made public through social media posts on Tuesday evening. The cause of death has not yet been released to the public, and no further details are known at this time. Coach Basarich was inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame in 2006, in recognition of his outstanding achievements as a basketball coach.
Who was Bob Basarich?
Bob Basarich was an amazing man who touched the lives of everyone he met. A talented coach, he led his teams to success both on and off the field.
While his accomplishments as a coach are impressive, it is the way he handled himself as a person that truly made him special.
He was always up for a conversation and never missed an opportunity to make those around him smile.
His generous nature and contagious smile made any event he attended the most memorable and enjoyable experience possible.
Bob Basarich was a man with a huge heart who was always willing to lend a hand to those in need.
Bob Basarich Early life
Bob Basarich enjoyed a long and successful career as the head coach of the Lockport High School boys’ varsity basketball team.
Over the course of 22 seasons, he led the team to 16 conference championships, 15 IHSA regional titles, 6 IHSA sectional titles, and 3 appearances in the IHSA state finals.
In 1978, his squad was victorious in the Class AA state championship game, finishing with a perfect 33-0 record.
The following year, the team earned a spot in the tournament’s last eight with a 29-2 record. Prior to Bob’s arrival in Lockport, the squad had competed in the state championship game just once before.
In addition to his on-court success, Bob was also recognized as Coach of the Year in 1973 and 1978.
Bob’s impact on the Lockport community went far beyond the basketball court, and his legacy will continue to be felt for many years to come. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time.