Lon Kruger holds the distinction of being the first Division I coach to lead five different programs to the NCAA Tournament. From 1982 until his retirement in 2021, Kruger amassed 674 wins, ranking among the top 40 in Division I history. He made 20 total NCAA Tournament appearances at Kansas State, Florida, Illinois, UNLV and Oklahoma after starting his college career at what is now UTRGV. He made two Final Fours – in 1994 with Florida and in 2016 with Oklahoma – and was a four-time conference Coach of the Year. Kruger also held NBA head and assistant coaching jobs with the Hawks and Knicks, and continues to serve the sport through his role as chair of the Coaches vs. Cancer Council.