George Raveling, who was known for his contributions to the game of basketball, both as a coach and as an executive for Nike, passed away on Sept. 1 at the age of 88, his family revealed in a statement.
Raveling played college basketball for Villanova from 1957 to 1960, before transitioning to coaching in 1963, serving as an assistant head coach for the Wildcats. He then went on to become an assistant at Maryland from 1969-1972, followed by his first head coaching opportunity at Washington State from 1972-1983. He was then the head coach for Iowa from 1983-1986 followed by USC from 1986-1994. Throughout his impressive coaching resume, he earned three Pac-10 Coach of the Year honors along with being named NABC Coach of the Year in 1992.
After retiring from USC, Raveling went on to become the global basketball sports marketing director at Nike, and was instrumental in getting Michael Jordon to sign the historic deal with the brand.
In 2013, he was inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame followed by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015.
George Raveling’s Family Announces The News On Social Media
Raveling’s family released a statement through his account on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“It is with deep sadness and unimaginable pain that we share the passing of our beloved ‘Coach,’ George Henry Raveling, who faced cancer with courage and grace. He transitioned peacefully at 88, surrounded by family as well as love, faith, and sacred protection,” the statement said. “There are no words to fully capture what George meant to his family, friends, colleagues, former players, and assistants – and to the world. He will be profoundly missed, yet his aura, energy, divine presence, and timeless wisdom love on in all those he touched and transformed.”
“Born in a segregated hospital and rising to the halls of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, George never lost his love for life his resilience, his childlike curiosity, nor his unshakable belief in treating every person with dignity and respect. Beyond accolades, he remained a lifelong learner and a kind, beautiful soul – always finding ways to pour into others and inspire the next generation,” his family continued. “Grief is the cost of love deeply felt. We are eternally grateful for everyone who loved George. He cherished his family, his friends, his books, and every opportunity to be a positive difference-maker in as many lives as possible.”
“At this time of mourning, our family kindly asks for privacy and prayer as we navigate this difficult transition,” they concluded.
Touching Tributes Pour In For George Raveling
Here are a few of the many tributes that have been posted in honor of George Raveling:
USA Basketball: “USA Basketball celebrates the life & legacy of two-time Olympic basketball assistant coach George Raveling. George was a trusted friend & advisor to USA Basketball & he will be missed. Our condolences to the Raveling family & all of George’s loved ones.”
USC Men’s Basketball: “Fight On Forever, George Raveling. The Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer, who led the Trojans to four postseason appearances as our head coach from 1987-94, passed away following a battle with cancer. He was 88.”
NCAA March Madness: “George Raveling has passed away at the age of 88. A true icon to the sport.”
