Amir Abdur-Rahim, a promising young coach in college basketball and the head coach of the South Florida men’s team, passed away on Thursday at the age of 43. The university confirmed that he died due to complications from a medical procedure at a hospital in the Tampa area.
USF Athletic Director Michael Kelly expressed the sorrow felt by the athletic community, stating, “All of us with South Florida Athletics are grieving with the loved ones of Coach Abdur-Rahim.” He praised Abdur-Rahim’s authenticity and leadership, noting the significant impact he had on student-athletes and the broader university community.
Abdur-Rahim achieved remarkable success last season, leading the Bulls to a program-record 25 wins and their first American Athletic Conference regular-season title. Before his arrival, the team had struggled to achieve a .500 record in the AAC and had only managed one winning season since 2012. His outstanding performance earned him the title of AAC Coach of the Year.
In addition to his coaching accolades, Abdur-Rahim also led the Bulls into the men’s AP Top 25 rankings for the first time, securing this recognition for two weeks in late February and early March.
Previously, Abdur-Rahim spent four seasons at Kennesaw State, where he turned the program around, taking them from just one win in his first season to 26 wins in his final season, and guiding them to an NCAA tournament appearance. He received the Hugh Durham Award in 2023, which is awarded to the best mid-major coach in the nation, and was named the ASUN Coach of the Year.
Abdur-Rahim, who is the younger brother of former NBA player Shareef Abdur-Rahim, had a rich coaching background, serving in various assistant roles at schools like Georgia, Texas A&M, Charleston, Georgia Tech, and Murray State. While at Georgia, he played a crucial role in recruiting Anthony Edwards, who became the first overall pick in the 2020 NBA draft.
USF President Rhea Law remarked on Abdur-Rahim’s profound influence in a short time, noting his enthusiastic approach and the unforgettable memories he created for the Bulls community.
The American Athletic Conference also expressed their condolences, recognizing Abdur-Rahim’s accomplishments and his integrity as a leader and coach.
NCAA senior vice president Dan Gavitt called Abdur-Rahim’s death “heartbreaking” and highlighted his vibrant personality and commendable character.
Abdur-Rahim is survived by his wife, Arianne, and their three children: Laila, Lana, and Aydin.