Former Kennesaw State basketball coach Amir Abdur-Rahim dies at 43
KENNESAW, Ga. - Kennesaw State University is mourning the loss of Amir Abdur-Rahim, a former men's basketball coach, who passed away due to complications from a medical procedure at a Tampa-area hospital.
Abdur-Rahim, a Marietta native, was 43 years old. He was preparing to begin his second season as the head coach at the University of South Florida.
During his four-year tenure at Kennesaw State, Abdur-Rahim led the Owls to their first-ever NCAA tournament appearance last year. His leadership left a lasting impact on the program and the athletes he mentored.
Kennesaw State’s Director of Athletics reflected on his legacy, saying Owl Nation will "forever remember how he molded young men into champions on the court and in their lives."
Mayor Andre Dickens issued the following statement.
"It is with great sadness to learn of the passing of Amir Abdur-Rahim, head coach of South Florida basketball and former coach of Kennesaw State University, who died at the age of 43. A proud native of Atlanta, Coach Abdur-Rahim was not only a remarkable coach but also a mentor to countless young athletes. His passion for the game and commitment to his players made a lasting impact on our community. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends and the entire basketball community during this difficult time."