SAN ANTONIO — The St. Mary's University Department of Athletics sends condolences to the family of Hall of Famer Robert "Snake" LeGrand, who passed away peacefully on July 19.
"The St. Mary's athletic program extends its deepest sympathies to the LeGrand family," said Executive Director of Athletics
Robert Coleman. "Snake's spirit and flare left a lasting impression on generations of student-athletes, and I'm certain that spirit will continue to do so for years to come."
LeGrand played basketball for the Rattlers from 1968-70 after concluding his military career in 1967. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1987 and remained connected to the program throughout his lifetime, cheering loudly for the team when they returned to the NCAA Tournament in 2025.
After coaching, LeGrand moved into a counseling role at Lamar High School, where he remained until his retirement in 2011.
"Snake LeGrand was a larger-than-life personality," said StMU Head Coach
Bubba Meyer. "A St. Mary's and Men's Basketball lifer. Countless times before or after big games, you could find Snake in the locker room celebrating with the team, or giving an unexpected pre-game pep talk. He was a profound influence on the lives of many young men who played basketball at St. Mary's. He was, in a way, the great uncle of the program, always there to be a friend, supporter, and positive influence. Snake showed us all how to live a life of 'greatness.' He will be greatly missed."
LeGrand's family will host a memorial service on the UT Arlington campus, where he was head coach from 1976-1987, on Wednesday, July 30.
LeGrand is survived by his wife, Gloria LeGrand, his sons Brian, Chris, Bobby and Aurice, daughters Lisa and Brianna, and 10 grandchildren. Chris is also a member of the StMU Athletic Hall of Fame, playing from 1992-1995.
