Roger Potter

Roger David Potter (October 5, 1907 – June 8, 1982) was an American professional basketball coach. He was the first head coach of the Tri-Cities Blackhawks (now the Atlanta Hawks) in the National Basketball Association (NBA) during the 1949–50 season. Potter accumulated a 1–4 record until his replacement by Red Auerbach.

Early life Potter was born on October 5, 1907, in Albany, Illinois. His father was a Methodist minister and Potter moved frequently as a child due to his father's work. Potter's family settled in Champaign, Illinois, when he was aged 11 after his father's death.

Coaching career Potter was hired as an assistant coach for the basketball, football and track teams at Moline High School under head coach George Senneff in 1930.

On February 14, 1949, Potter was announced as head coach of the Tri-Cities Blackhawks of the National Basketball League (NBL).

Later life Potter returned to the insurance business after his coaching career ended.