"Passing of 43-year-old South Florida Coach Amir Abdur-Rahim"

The University of South Florida announced on Thursday that their coach, Amir Abdur-Rahim, passed away due to complications during a medical procedure. He was 43 years old.

Abdur-Rahim underwent the procedure at a hospital in the Tampa area. He was highly regarded in the world of college basketball, having achieved a 25-8 record in the 2023-24 season and being named the American Athletic Conference Coach of the Year in his first year with the Bulls.

\"We at South Florida Athletics are mourning the loss of Coach Abdur-Rahim,\" said Michael Kelly, vice president for athletics, in a news release. \"He was genuine, determined, and his infectious personality captured the hearts of all of Bulls Nation.

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\"Coach Abdur-Rahim made a lasting impact on our student-athletes, the University, and the community. We are providing support to those closest to him, including his family, team, and athletics staff, to help them cope with this tremendous loss.\"

Before Abdur-Rahim's arrival, South Florida had experienced four consecutive losing seasons. However, he led the team to a 16-2 record in the AAC and an appearance in the NIT. The Bulls defeated UCF in the first round before losing to VCU in the second.

Prior to joining South Florida, Abdur-Rahim led Kennesaw State to a 26-9 record and their first-ever appearance in the NCAA Tournament during the 2022-23 season. The team put up a good fight against Xavier but ultimately lost 72-67 in the first round.

He was then recruited by the Bulls.

\"In a short amount of time, Coach Abdur-Rahim made a lasting impact on the University of South Florida. In his first season as our head coach, he brought an unparalleled enthusiasm, achieved unprecedented success, and helped create unforgettable memories for Bulls Nation,\" said South Florida president Rhea Law in the news release. \"Throughout my time working with Coach Abdur-Rahim, I was constantly inspired by his leadership and truly admired his genuine approach to connecting with our entire student body. His influence on our student-athletes, coaching staff, and the university community will live on forever.\"

Abdur-Rahim's record at Kennesaw State was 45-74 over four seasons. In his first year, the team went 1-28, but he eventually built a team that made it to the NCAA Tournament.

\"My thoughts and prayers go out to Amir's wife, Arianne, his two daughters, Laila and Lana, and his son, Aydin,\" said Kennesaw State athletic director Milton Overton in a statement. \"Amir Abdur-Rahim left a legacy not only at Kennesaw State, but throughout his life. Owl Nation will always remember how he molded young men into champions on and off the court.\"

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South Florida's first game of the season is scheduled for November 4 against Florida on a neutral court in Jacksonville.