Norman Black

Norman Black is an American former professional basketball player and coach who has made a lasting impact on Philippine basketball. He had a short stint in the National Basketball Association with the Detroit Pistons.

He is currently a consultant for the San Beda University Red Lions and the Meralco Bolts.

Player Profile

Norman Augustus Black was born on November 12, 1957, in Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America. He stands 6 feet 5 inches tall and weighed 186 pounds during his playing career.

Black played as a shooting guard and small forward during his professional career.

He was known for his versatility and earned the nickname "Mr. 100%" for his consistent performance on the court.

High School and College Career

Black attended Cardinal Gibbons High School in Baltimore, where he graduated in 1975.

He then played college basketball at Saint Joseph's University from 1975 to 1979.

Professional Career

Black began his professional career in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA), playing for the Lancaster Red Roses and Philadelphia Kings from 1979 to 1982.

He briefly played in the NBA for the Detroit Pistons during the 1980-81 season.

In 1981, Black moved to the Philippines to play in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).

He became one of the league's most dominant imports, winning two PBA Championships and earning two Best Import awards. His playing career in the PBA included stints with teams like Magnolia Quench Plus, Alaska Milkmen, and San Miguel Beermen.

Black transitioned to coaching in 1985 as a playing coach for Magnolia Ice Cream Makers.

He later became one of the most successful coaches in PBA history, leading teams like San Miguel Beermen, Sta. Lucia Realtors, and Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters to a combined total of 11 PBA championships, including a Grand Slam with San Miguel in 1989.

He also had a successful collegiate coaching career with the Ateneo Blue Eagles from 2005 to 2012, winning five consecutive UAAP championships from 2008 to 2012.

Since 2023, he has been a consultant for San Beda and the Meralco Bolts.

Career Highlights:

As Player

• 1982 - PBA Best Import (Reinforced Filipino Conference)
• 1985 - PBA Best Import (Open Conference)

As Coach

• 1989 - PBA Grand Slam champion with San Miguel Beermen
• 2008–2012 - Five consecutive UAAP championships with Ateneo Blue Eagles

Medal Record, Men's Basketball Representing Philippines

• Gold - Southeast Asian Games Jakarta (2011 as head coach)
• Silver - Asian Games Beijing (1990 as assistant coach)
• Silver - FIBA Asia Championship Manila (2013 as assistant coach)
• Silver - FIBA Asia Championship Changsha (2015 as assistant coach)