Bob Hallberg, a Southside Chicago native, grew up immersed in sports, organizing teams and tournaments at an early age. He played basketball at St. Leo Grammar School and Leo High School before continuing his career at Chicago Teachers College under legendary coach Jim Arnenberg.

Hallberg began his coaching journey while still in college, mentoring his younger brothers in basketball. His first official coaching role was at Kennedy High School, where he served for five years. In 1971, he became the Athletic Director and Men’s Basketball Coach at St. Xavier University, achieving an impressive record of 127-61 over a decade. Under his leadership, St. Xavier transitioned from NAIA to NCAA Division I status, maintaining a winning record and an impressive 75-game home win streak.

In 1987, Hallberg moved to the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), becoming the winningest basketball coach in UIC history with a 134-128 record over nine years. In 2000, he returned to St. Xavier to establish the women’s basketball program, securing nine conference championships and ten consecutive NAIA National Tournament appearances. His record with the women’s team was 302-94, with a remarkable 76.2% win percentage.

Over 42 years, Hallberg amassed a career record of 880-383 (70% win percentage). He is a member of multiple Halls of Fame, including St. Xavier, Leo High School, and Chicago State. Married to Linda for 45 years, Hallberg is the proud father of three sons, Bob, Bill, and Brian.