Hall of Fame basketball coach George Raveling passes at 88

George Raveling, a titan of basketball whose influence stretched from the court to cultural milestones, has left us at the age of 88, as ESPN reports.

His passing, announced by his family on Tuesday, marks the end of a remarkable life that shaped college hoops, brokered iconic business deals, and even touched civil rights history.

Raveling’s family spoke of his battle with cancer, noting he faced it with unwavering courage and grace. Well, that’s the kind of grit you’d expect from a man who turned losing seasons into NCAA tournament runs. It’s a reminder that real strength isn’t just physical — it’s in the spirit.

From Villanova star to coaching legend

Starting as a standout player at Villanova from 1957 to 1960, Raveling averaged a double-double in his final two seasons with 12.3 points and 14.6 rebounds. Drafted by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960, he never played in the NBA, but his destiny was on the sidelines, not the hardwood.

His coaching journey kicked off in 1972, taking the helm at Washington State, then Iowa, and finally USC until 1994, amassing a 335-293 record. Despite rocky first seasons at each stop, he consistently turned programs around, guiding them to multiple NCAA tournaments. That’s not just talent; it’s tenacity in a world too quick to cancel a coach over one bad year.

Raveling also lent his expertise to the U.S. Olympic basketball staffs in 1984 and 1988, helping secure gold in Los Angeles. His role wasn’t just ceremonial — he influenced a young Michael Jordan on that 1984 team, nudging him toward a game-changing decision. More on that bombshell in a moment.

Nike deal that changed everything

Here’s where Raveling’s legacy gets downright legendary: he connected Jordan with Nike’s Sonny Vaccaro, paving the way for the Air Jordan brand. That deal didn’t just make Jordan millions; it revolutionized athletic apparel and turned sneakers into status symbols. Leave it to a coach to spot potential not just in plays, but in profits.

Jordan himself said, “I signed with Nike because of George.” That’s high praise from His Airness, but let’s be real — Raveling didn’t just broker a contract; he shifted a cultural paradigm while progressive tastemakers were busy preaching “equity” over enterprise. Turns out, capitalism can elevate everyone when guided by vision.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver noted Raveling’s global impact, saying he “mentored multiple generations” and “broke barriers.” Fair enough, but let’s not drown this in corporate platitudes — Raveling’s real barrier-breaking was in showing how sports can bridge business and influence without bowing to every trendy narrative.

Historic connection to MLK

Beyond basketball, Raveling held a piece of American history, owning the original copy of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech from the 1963 March on Washington, where he worked security. He boldly asked King for it as the reverend stepped away, and King obliged. That’s not just a memento; it’s a testament to being in the right place with the right conviction.

Raveling safeguarded that speech until 2021, when he donated it to Villanova, his alma mater. Former Villanova coach Jay Wright called him “the finest human being,” which speaks volumes in an era where genuine character often gets sidelined for social media clout.

Current Villanova coach Kevin Willard echoed that sentiment, highlighting Raveling’s deep ties to the program. It’s refreshing to see a man honored for his roots, not just his resume, in a culture obsessed with fleeting fame over lasting loyalty.

Tragic setback, lasting impact

In 1994, while still coaching at USC, Raveling endured a horrific car crash, suffering nine broken ribs, a broken collarbone, and a broken pelvis. That kind of setback would crush most, yet his influence only grew, proving resilience isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a way of life.

Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015, Raveling’s legacy was cemented long before Hollywood took notice with Marlon Wayans portraying him in the 2023 film “Air.” His family’s tribute said, “His aura, energy, divine presence… live on.” They’re right—his impact isn’t fading, even if today’s woke crowd might gloss over his old-school values.

So, as we mourn George Raveling at 88, let’s remember a man who coached with grit, brokered deals with foresight, and held history in his hands. In a world quick to rewrite the past for political points, his story stands as a quiet rebuke: substance over spectacle wins every time.