College basketball coach Amir Abdur-Rahim, 43, dies from ‘undisclosed illness’

  • Abdur-Rahim was named AAC Coach of the Year after his lone season at USF

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

According to the the school’s athletic departmentAbdur-Rahim died from complications that arose during a medical procedure.

The Tampa Bay Times also reported that the coach was battling an undisclosed illness.

‘We are heartbroken by the passing of Coach Abdur-Rahim,’ USF men’s basketball program wrote on X.

‘A great man and leader with an infectious personality who was a shining light to all he encountered.

South Florida basketball head coach Amir Abdur-Rahim has died at the age of 43

Abdur-Rahim greets the crowd during last year's AAC Men's Basketball Championship.

Abdur-Rahim greets the crowd during last year’s AAC Men’s Basketball Championship.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and all those on whom he left a lasting impact.

Abdur-Rahim is the brother of Shareef Abdur-Rahim, a 12-year NBA vet and one-time All-Star who retired after the 2007-08 season.

The coach joined USF last year after four years in the same role at Kennesaw State, which he led to the NCAA Tournament in the 2022-2023 season.

In his lone season at USF, he posted an impressive 25-8 record and was named the American Athletic Conference’s Coach of the Year.

The coach's brother, Shareef Abdur-Rahim, was a 12-year NBA veteran and one-time All-Star

The coach’s brother, Shareef Abdur-Rahim, was a 12-year NBA veteran and one-time All-Star

Abdur-Rahim previously held assistant coaching roles at Murray State, Charleston, Texas A&M and Georgia.

USF President Rhea Law added, “In a very short time, Coach Abdur-Rahim has made an indelible impact on the University of South Florida. In his first season as our head coach, he brought unparalleled enthusiasm, achieved unprecedented success and helped generate unforgettable memories for Bulls Nation.

“During my time working with Coach Abdur-Rahim, I was continually inspired by his leadership and truly admired his genuine approach to connecting with our entire student body. His impact on our student-athletes, coaching staff and the university community will live on forever.”