The city of Tampa is mourning the loss of Amir Abdur-Rahim, the head coach of the University of South Florida men’s basketball team, who passed away at the age of 43. The university confirmed in a press statement that Abdur-Rahim died due to complications during a medical procedure on Thursday.
USF athletic director Michael Kelly expressed deep sadness, stating, “All of us with South Florida Athletics are grieving with the loved ones of Coach Abdur-Rahim. He was authentic, and driven, and his infectious personality captivated all of Bulls Nation.” He continued, saying that the university is providing support to Abdur-Rahim’s family, team, and athletic staff during this challenging time.
Born into a family with a basketball legacy as the younger brother of former NBA All-Star Shareef Abdur-Rahim, Amir Abdur-Rahim played college basketball at Southeastern Louisiana before starting his coaching career. He served as an assistant coach under Billy Kennedy at Murray State and later worked at Texas A&M and Georgia. In 2019, he became the head coach at Kennesaw State, where he initially faced challenges but eventually led the team to a historic 26-win season, taking them to March Madness in 2023.
During his first season with the Bulls, Abdur-Rahim quickly made an impact. He guided the team to a 25-8 record and achieved a No. 24 ranking in the Associated Press and USA Today Coaches Poll. He also led the Bulls to victory in the NIT and received the American Athletic Conference Coach of the Year honors, as well as recognition as a finalist for the prestigious Naismith College Coach of the Year award.
USF President Rhea Law acknowledged the significant impact Abdur-Rahim made in a brief period, saying, “In his first season as our head coach, he brought an unmatched enthusiasm, achieved unprecedented success and helped generate unforgettable memories for Bulls Nation.” His influence on student-athletes and the university community will be remembered for years to come.
Amir Abdur-Rahim leaves behind his wife Arianne and their three children—two daughters, Laila and Lana, and a son, Aydin. As the University of South Florida and the broader basketball community grieve his untimely passing, everyone reflects on the legacy he leaves behind.
