Ben Fletcher named interim coach for South Florida
The University of South Florida has appointed Ben Fletcher as the interim coach on Tuesday, in light of the unexpected passing of head coach Amir Abdur-Rahim last week.
Fletcher joined the Bulls as an assistant coach in Abdur-Rahim's first season last year. He previously served as Abdur-Rahim's assistant at Kennesaw State from 2019-23.
Abdur-Rahim passed away last Thursday due to complications during a medical procedure in the Tampa, Fla. area at the age of 43.
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At an introductory press conference on Tuesday, athletic director Michael Kelly stated, "There's no doubt in my mind that Ben is the right person to lead our program moving forward."
An emotional Fletcher added, "It's a tough time, as you all know. But I know Coach Amir would want me to take on this role. So, thank you. And please know that I am taking this responsibility seriously."
Prior to Abdur-Rahim's arrival, South Florida had experienced four consecutive losing seasons. However, under his guidance, the team achieved a 25-8 record (16-2 in the American Athletic Conference) and earned a spot in the NIT. The Bulls defeated UCF in the first round before falling to VCU in the second.
The university will hold a celebration of life to honor Abdur-Rahim on Saturday at the Yuengling Center in Tampa.
Fletcher will lead the Bulls in an exhibition game against Edward Waters at home on Wednesday evening.
South Florida will kick off their regular season on Monday against Florida on a neutral court in Jacksonville, Fla.
Fletcher was part of the coaching staff at Kennesaw State when they finished with a 26-9 record and earned a spot in the NCAA Tournament in 2022-23. Prior to that, he had also helped guide Troy to the NCAA tournament as both a player (2003) and an assistant coach (2017). He spent 14 seasons as an assistant coach for the Trojans (2005-19).
