I had the chance to work with Will Robinson when I was with the Pistons. My friends, he was a great communicator who understood the strengths and weaknesses of people.

I was saddened to hear the news of his passing at age 96.

Robinson made his mark in the sport of basketball. He coached Spencer Haywood in high school and was a key reason the star player went to the University of Detroit. Robinson had a brilliant career as a high school coach in the Motor City, and he was so special to so many people in the city as a teacher and leader.

He was the first African-American to coach Division I basketball, and he had an All-American in Doug Collins at Illinois State. I don't think people realize what a pioneer Robinson was. I was fortunate that he did not end up as head coach at the University of Detroit. If he had, there is no doubt in my mind that he would have been extremely successful and I would never have had the opportunity to land that job. History would have been a lot different in that scenario.

Robinson went on to scouting for the Pistons, and among his gems, he helped Detroit find Joe Dumars and Dennis Rodman.

What I loved most about Will was his loyalty, dedication and passion. He was also a very nice man who was easy to talk to.

I can remember for years when we were at luncheons together (he was helping to promote the Pistons), he would tell me I should leave coaching and just go into TV. We always enjoyed telling stories about the game we loved.

I will truly miss Will Robinson. He was a great human being who enjoyed a full life. The sport of college basketball and the NBA will miss him, also.

Dick Vitale coached the Pistons and the University of Detroit before broadcasting ESPN's first college basketball game in December 1979. Send him a question for possible use on ESPNEWS.