LAS CRUCES, N.M. -- A close friend of Don Haskins said he is feeling for the family right now.

Former New Mexico State University head basketball coach Lou Henson said the game of basketball changed because of coach Haskins, because the former Texas Western College coach was the first coach to start five black players.

Henson, NMSU’s winningest coach, said he was sad to hear of the passing of a great friend, from his Champaign, Ill., home, where he spends his summers.

Henson revealed the two had been very close throughout the years, and had heard about the late coach's recent health troubles.

Henson went through his own health problems during the past few years.

In 2003 he had chemotherapy for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Responding about his own health, Henson said, “I am doing very well, and getting better all the time.”

Henson gave this comment about coach Haskins.

"College basketball has lost an American legend. Don Haskins is one of the greatest coaches of our game and his legacy will endure throughout the ages because of his 1966 NCAA championship. The game of basketball has been greatly diminished with the passing of coach Haskins whose friendship I have always treasured. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his beloved Mary and their entire family."

Henson said he is glad to hear the great responses coming from the community.