Tampa Bay Lightning Release Heartfelt Statement Honoring Late Head Coach After Recent Passing
The Tampa Bay Lightning issued a heartfelt statement after USF coach Amir Abdur-Rahim sadly passed away at the very young age of 43 after a medical complication.
With the sudden death of head coach Amir Abdur-Rahim, due to complications from a medical procedure on Thursday, the University of South Florida's men's basketball team lost a great human being, as did the entire sports world.
Only 43 years old, Abdur-Rahim was among the brightest and utmost respected stars in college basketball coaching for his strategic acumen and strong leadership. The Tampa Bay Lightning, being from the state of Florida, also issued a heartfelt statement.
Abdur-Rahim joined USF's basketball staff before last season, and he transformed the roster composition the moment he walked in the door. In his first year at the controls, he led the Bulls to a 25-8 record, the highlight of his career, which earned him the American Athletic Conference Coach of the Year honors. His team won the regular season conference championship and was ranked as high as within the NCAA Top 25 for the first time in the history of the program.
Despite his relatively young age, Abdur-Rahim brought almost twenty years of experience as a coach into the job. A graduate of Southeastern Louisiana University, he dove head-first into coaching shortly after his college graduation in 2004. Known for player development and having a keen eye for recruiting, Abdur-Rahim was responsible for the recruiting of Anthony Edwards, who later became a top pick in the NBA draft, during his time at the University of Georgia.
Beyond that professional success, Abdur-Rahim was admired by his players, associates, and all fans for what he did to help develop a love for the sport in youngsters. His character and loyalty to the family were also widely admired; his brother, former NBA player Shareef Abdur-Rahim, spoke frequently of Amir's strength and his commitment to basketball at all levels.
Amir Abdur-Rahim is survived by his wife, Arianne, and their three children. His passing leaves a dent within the USF community that can never be erased having become an irreplaceable part of it, He was not only a great coach, but above all, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend.
Rest in peace, Coach Abdur-Rahim.
