Today on the Basketball Manitoba Podcast, we have Vic Pruden.

Vic Pruden’s influence on basketball in Manitoba spans more than seven decades. He began coaching in 1957, winning a provincial championship, and went on to build championship programs at the high school, university, provincial, and national levels. He was instrumental in establishing both the men’s and women’s intercollegiate basketball programs at the University of Winnipeg, guiding the women’s team to multiple conference titles and national finalist appearances, while also contributing to the development of Canada’s national junior program.

Beyond the wins, Vic helped shape the foundation of the game in Manitoba. He founded major events such as the Fort Garry Invitational and the Golden Boy Invitational (now known as the Wesmen Classic), launched influential summer camps, served as the first president of the Manitoba Basketball Coaches Association, and authored A Conceptual Approach to Basketball. His impact has been recognized with induction into both the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame.

In recognition of his lifelong commitment to the game and his understanding of the financial challenges student-athletes face, the Vic Pruden Basketball Bursary Fund has been established to support two graduating players each year as they continue their academic and athletic journeys.