
Bob Stoops, the former head coach of the Oklahoma Sooners, has been named one of TIME magazine’s 100 most influential people in sports. This milestone marks a defining moment in Stoops’ career, underscoring the enormous impact he has had not only on college football but also on the broader sports landscape in the United States. The TIME 100 list is known for celebrating individuals who shape their industries and inspire millions, and Stoops’ inclusion this year highlights his legacy as a transformative figure in athletics and leadership.
Bob Stoops coached the Oklahoma Sooners from 1999 to 2016, compiling a remarkable 190–48 record. Under his guidance, the Sooners won a national championship in 2000 and captured 10 Big 12 titles. Stoops was widely respected for building a culture of excellence, accountability, and consistency. His coaching philosophy emphasized mental toughness and preparation, which helped Oklahoma maintain its status as one of the most feared programs in college football during his tenure. Even after retirement, he remained an influential voice, returning in 2021 to coach the Sooners in the Alamo Bowl and continuing to shape the program’s identity.
What sets Stoops apart, and likely contributed to his inclusion on the TIME 100 list, is his continued influence long after stepping down as head coach. Whether through his role in mentoring young coaches, promoting player development, or contributing to the evolving college football landscape through his work in the XFL and various media appearances, Stoops has remained at the center of the sport. He has helped shape conversations around NIL (name, image, and likeness) rights, player safety, and coaching ethics—topics that define modern collegiate sports.
Beyond football strategy and accolades, Bob Stoops has long embodied the leadership qualities that young athletes and fellow coaches admire. Known as “Big Game Bob” for his knack for delivering wins in critical matchups, Stoops also gained a reputation for humility, discipline, and the ability to adapt in a rapidly changing sports world. His influence extends off the field as well, with community involvement and charitable work that supports student-athletes and families in need across Oklahoma and beyond.
For Oklahoma fans, this recognition feels deeply personal. Stoops’ time in Norman transformed the Sooners from a struggling program into a national powerhouse. His stability and vision laid the foundation for future success and brought back pride to a historic football institution. While other programs cycled through coaches and identities, Oklahoma thrived under Stoops, setting records and producing NFL talent year after year. His success inspired a generation of fans and players who viewed him not just as a coach, but as a symbol of excellence.
TIME’s decision to feature Stoops among the most influential people in sports is also a nod to the increasing value placed on character, integrity, and impact beyond wins and losses. In an era where controversy often dominates headlines, Stoops represents the kind of steady leadership that leaves a lasting legacy. He has championed values that go beyond the field, fostering growth in young men while navigating the complexities of the evolving college football system with grace and poise.
This honor reaffirms what Oklahoma fans and college football insiders have known for years: Bob Stoops is more than just a legendary coach—he’s a foundational figure in American sports. His presence in the TIME 100 serves as a proud moment for the University of Oklahoma, its fans, and the broader world of college athletics. As the sport continues to evolve, the principles and path laid by Stoops will continue to influence generations to come. Full story in here.
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