Coach Bill King, the heart of Orr basketball, passed away on Monday, October 6, 2025, at the age of 94.
His family and community are mourning the loss of Coach with heavy hearts.
Bill King Spent Over Three Decades Dedicated To Coaching!
Coach Bill King was a respected basketball coach from Orr, Minnesota, and a proud member of the Bois Forte Ojibwe community.
He began coaching at Orr High School in 1960 and led the team to many victories over the years.
This includes his 405 career wins, 19 conference titles, and three state tournament appearances.
He coached boys basketball for 35 years, retiring around 1995 after building one of the most respected small-town programs in the state.
After retiring from coaching, King remained active in his community and continued to be recognized for his contributions.
In 1994, he was inducted into the Minnesota Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
Decades later, he was honored with several awards, including being named American Indian Educator of the Year in 2024.
Likewise, he also received the Outstanding Citizen Award from St. Louis County for his lifelong service.
King’s passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, well-wishers, and those who knew him.
One of his former students paid a heartfelt tribute to Coach, saying:
I’m so sorry to hear of Coach King’s passing. But I also know he is where he wants to be. My sincerest condolences to his family. Coach King always stopped and talked basketball with us. He loved fundamental basketball. He said he loved the way my boys played ball. He liked the way Ben ran the Eagles program. He came watched us a few times! It was so cool to have his support behind us!
Likewise, another one said:
Meeting him one time was enough to know he was a unique and beautiful soul. Full of energy and helping us to the end, I’m sure. My condolences.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family, friends, and well-wishers of Basketball Coach Bill King.
Rest In Peace, Legendary Coach!
