- Amir Abdur-Rahim died of complications during a medical procedure
Former NBA star Shareef Abdur-Rahim has broken his silence following the death of his younger brother and University of South Florida basketball coach Amir.
Amir’s death was announced by the the school’s athletic department Thursday, when they wrote that the 43-year-old died from complications that arose during a medical procedure. He was reportedly battling an unknown illness, according to the newspaper Tampa Bay Times.
On Friday morning, the 12-year NBA vet, 47, went to X to remember his brother.
“From God we come, and to God we must all return,” he said wrote.
“On behalf of my family, I would like to express our gratitude to everyone who has reached out regarding Amir’s passing. Please keep our family in your prayers. If [Amir] would say: to God be the Glory.’
South Florida basketball head coach Amir Abdur-Rahim died at the age of 43
And his brother Shareef broke his silence on Friday after the 43-year-old’s death
Amir 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.
The USF men’s basketball program wrote on X that Amir was a “great man and leader with an infectious personality who was a shining light to all he encountered.”
USF President Rhea Law added in a statement, “In a very short time, Coach Abdur-Rahim has had 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.”
Shareef started his career with the Vancouver Grizzlies and played 12 years in the NBA
In his lone season at USF, Amir posted an impressive 25-8 record and was named the American Athletic Conference Coach of the Year, while also leading the team to the second round of the NIT.
Shareef, who started his NBA career with the Vancouver Grizzlies, was named an All-Star with the Hawks during the 2001-02 season and last played in the 2007-08 season.
He is currently the president of the NBA G League.