He served as men’s head basketball coach from 1953-65. During his 12-year tenure, the Eagles mounted a 66-120 record and his team shared first place in the Ohio Valley Conference four different seasons. He coached his way to three 19-win campaigns. Known for his fast-break offensive teams, he saw his 1956-57 team lead the nation in rebounding. The Laughlin Health Building was built in 1967 and named in his honor. He was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame in 1985.