DePaul Hall of Famer Billy Haig died on January 13 at St. Francis Hospital in Evanston, Ill. Haig was part of DePaul's well-known backcourt duo alongside Howie Carl. Haig played his prep ball at DePaul Academy where he and eventual DePaul University teammate Tom Meier led the Academy to the 1954-55 Catholic League title.
Once in Lincoln Park, Haig teamed with fellow transfer Howie Carl for three stellar seasons from 1958-61. Their squads finished 17-7 and 17-8 in their final two seasons. Three times, he and his squadmates advanced to postseason play, twice in the NCAA Tournament and once in the NIT. The 1960 team advanced to the NCAA tournament and defeated Air Force in the opening round game played in Alumni Hall. The Blue Demons dropped the second round match-up, falling to Cinncinnati and All-American Guard Oscar Robertson in a rugged battle.
Known as a great ball handler and dribbler who could get to basket, Haig averaged in doubles figures throughout his career. He scored 843 career points in his three-year career, tallying totals of 285, 300 and 268 points in his three years, respectively.
The 1959-60 team was featured in the Dec. 12 issue of Sports Illustrated in a story called "The Secret Of A Great Offense". The article explained Coach Ray Meyer's offense in great detail. The link the article can be found here.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1134804/index.htm
Memorial information:
Haig, William W. 71, Army Veteran, CPS Teacher of 30 years at Lakeview High School, beloved husband of Josette for 48 years, loving father of Christopher (Janet) and Anthony (Riikka), devoted grandfather of Dylan and Ryan, brother-in-law of Connie (Frank) Spenko, loving uncle of Matthew (Elizabeth). Memorial 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., service at 3:30 p.m. at Misericordia, 6300 N. Ridge, Chicago, on Sunday, January 17th. In lieu of flowers, donations to Misericordia Heart of Mercy.
