Bill Logan

Bill Logan: A Legacy of Basketball Excellence and Community Leadership

Written by Erika Berrett

Early Life and High School Success

William "Bill" Logan was born on December 30, 1934, in Keokuk, Iowa, the oldest child of William Archie Logan and Carla Huiskamp Logan. Raised in a family with deep roots in Keokuk—his great-grandfather was Judge William Logan—Bill exhibited an early talent for sports. He attended Keokuk public schools, graduating from Keokuk Senior High in 1952. As a sophomore, Bill helped lead his high school basketball team to its first-ever Sweet Sixteen appearance in the Iowa State Basketball Tournament, marking the beginning of his storied basketball career.

Collegiate Stardom with the 'Fabulous Five'

Bill’s high school success caught the attention of college recruiters nationwide. He ultimately accepted an offer from Coach Bucky O’Connor to play for the University of Iowa Hawkeyes. There, Bill became a key member of the "Fabulous Five," an all-sophomore starting lineup that made history in college basketball. Standing 6 feet 7 inches tall, Bill was the Hawkeyes' leading scorer for three consecutive seasons. The Fabulous Five won back-to-back Big Ten Championships and led Iowa to its first two NCAA Final Four appearances, cementing their legacy in the annals of Iowa basketball.

Bill's performance in the 1956 NCAA Tournament was particularly memorable, where he set a school record by scoring 39 points in a victory against Temple—a record that still stands for Iowa in NCAA play. His encounter with Bill Russell and the San Francisco Dons in the 1956 NCAA Championship game was a defining moment in his career, with Russell later calling Bill "the greatest center he had ever played against."

Life Beyond Basketball

Despite being drafted by the Boston Celtics, Bill chose to pursue a career outside of professional basketball. He played one season with the Denver-Chicago Truckers in the National Industrial Basketball League while working in banking. In 1957, Bill returned to Keokuk, joining his father at the family-owned State Central Bank. This decision highlighted his deep commitment to his hometown, where he would make a lasting impact as a community leader and businessman.

Community Leadership and Personal Life

Bill's influence extended well beyond the basketball court. As a banker, he played a crucial role in supporting and developing local businesses in Keokuk. His leadership was evident through his involvement in numerous community organizations, including the Keokuk City Council, YMCA Board of Directors, and Keokuk Water Works Board. He also served as President of the Iowa Bankers Association during the challenging farm crisis of the 1980s, demonstrating his commitment to the economic well-being of his community.

A man of many talents and interests, Bill was an avid outdoorsman and pilot who, along with his wife Joan Tyler, whom he married in 1956, traveled to all seven continents. Together, they raised five children in Keokuk, passing on the values of hard work, integrity, and service.

Legacy and Remembrance

Bill Logan passed away on January 25, 2018, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, leadership, and humility. His contributions to Iowa basketball and his dedication to the Keokuk community continue to inspire those who knew him and those who learn about his life. His story is a powerful reminder of the profound impact that one individual can have both on the world stage and within their own community.

Bill Logan's life is commemorated at Keokuk's Oakland Cemetery, where he is buried, and through various honors, including the retirement of his jersey by the Iowa Legislature and his induction into the Iowa Varsity Club Hall of Fame.

Sources:

1. "William 'Bill' Logan Obituary," Vigen Memorial

2. "Remembering Bill Logan," Rick Brown, hawkeyesports.com, January 28, 2018

3. Main Street Keokuk Inc. Walk of Fame, Bill Logan Plaque