- Amir Abdur-Rahim died from complications of 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 school athletic department Thursday, when they wrote that the 43-year-old man died due to complications that arose during a medical procedure. He had reportedly been battling an undisclosed illness, according to the Tampa Bay Times.
On Friday morning, the 47-year-old 12-year NBA veteran went to X to remember his brother.
“We come from God and to God we must all return,” he stated. wrote.
‘On behalf of my family, I want to express our gratitude to everyone who has reached out regarding Amir’s passing. Please remember our family in your prayers. As (Amir) would say, to God be the Glory.’
South Florida men’s basketball head coach Amir Abdur-Rahim has died at the age of 43.
And his brother, Shareef, broke his silence on Friday following the 43-year-old’s death.
Amir joined USF last year after spending four years in the same role with Kennesaw State, whom he led to the NCAA Tournament in the 2022-23 season.
The USF men’s basketball program wrote in X that Amir was a “tremendous man and leader with an infectious personality who was a shining light to everything he encountered.”
USF President Rhea Law added in a statement: “In a very short time, Coach Abdur-Rahim made an indelible impact on the University of South Florida. In his first season as our head coach, he brought an enthusiasm unmatched, achieved unprecedented success and helped create unforgettable memories for Bulls Nation.
‘During my time working with Coach Abdur-Rahim, I was continually inspired by his leadership and truly admired his sincere approach to connecting with our entire student body. His influence on our student-athletes, coaching staff and university community will last forever.’
Shareef began his career with the Vancouver Grizzlies and played 12 years in the NBA.
In his lone season with USF, Amir posted an impressive 25-8 record and was named American Athletic Conference Coach of the Year, while leading the team to the second round of the NIT.
Shareef, who began his NBA career with the Vancouver Grizzlies, was named an All-Star while with the Hawks during the 2001-02 season and last suited up during the 2007-08 campaign.
He is currently the president of the NBA G League.