South Florida basketball coach Amir Abdur-Rahim dies at 43

University of South Florida men’s basketball coach Amir Abdur-Rahim died Oct. 24 at age 43, the school announced.

The university said Abdur-Rahim died from complications while undergoing a medical procedure at a Tampa-area hospital.

“All of us at South Florida Athletics join Coach Abdur-Rahim’s loved ones in mourning,” Vice President of Athletics Michael Kelly. says the statement.

“He was sincere, driven, and his infectious personality captivated the entire Bulls Nation. Coach Abdur-Rahim has a lasting impact on our student-athletes, the university and the community. “We are supporting those closest to him, including his family, team and athletic staff, to ensure they have the resources they need to cope with this tremendous loss.”

Abdur-Rahim, who played college basketball at Southeastern Louisiana University, was a rising star in the coaching ranks. Last season, he led the Bulls to a 25-8 record, earning American Athletic Conference Coach of the Year honors, as well as leading the team to its first regular-season conference title and first top-25 ranking among coaches by the Associated Press and USA Today. . surveys.

“In a very short time, Coach Abdur-Rahim has made a lasting impact on the University of South Florida. In his first season as our head coach, he showed unparalleled passion, achieved unprecedented success and helped create unforgettable memories for Bulls Nation,” said USF President Rhea Lowe.

“Throughout my time with Coach Abdur-Rahim, I have been continually inspired by his leadership and truly admired his genuine approach to communicating with all of our students. His impact on our student-athletes, coaching staff and university community will live forever.”

Prior to his time at USF, Abdur-Rahim was the head coach at Kennesaw State University, where he went from one win in his first season in 2019-20 to a 26-9 record — and a berth in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament. in his fourth and final season in 2022-23 before taking the coaching job at USF.