Former Oklahoma Sooners head football coach John Blake died Thursday at the age of 59.
Former Oklahoma head coach Barry Switzer confirmed the news to Ryan Aber of The Oklahoman, who noted Blake died of heart failure.
According to Aber, Blake became the first Black head coach in Sooners history for any sport when he held the position from 1996 through 1998. While his teams went just 12-22 during his tenure, he played a key role in the recruitment of players who helped lead Oklahoma to a national title in 2000.
One of those national champions was running back and wide receiver Josh Norman, who reflected on Blake's legacy.