Renowned College Basketball Coach Charles “Lefty” Driesell Passes Away at 92
HARRISONBURG, Va. – The college basketball community is mourning the loss of Charles “Lefty” Driesell, a legendary coach who left an indelible mark on the sport. Driesell, who was a member of both the James Madison Athletics Hall of Fame and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, passed away early Saturday morning, Feb. 17, at the age of 92. His impact on the sport of college basketball, particularly at James Madison University (JMU), will not be forgotten.
Driesell led four programs to the NCAA Tournament, including JMU in 1994, and is the only coach in NCAA history to win at least 100 games at four different schools. His contributions to JMU and the sport of college basketball have been recognized and appreciated by the entire athletic community.
JMU Director of Athletics Jeff Bourne expressed his gratitude for Driesell’s significant impact on the men’s basketball program at JMU, noting that his imprint on the program was evident from day one. Bourne, on behalf of JMU Athletics, extended sincere condolences to Driesell’s family and friends, acknowledging the coach’s lasting contributions to both JMU and the sport of college basketball.
Current JMU Head Coach Mark Byington also shared his deep sadness over Driesell’s passing, emphasizing the coach’s influential and legendary impact on the college basketball world. Byington extended heartfelt condolences to Driesell’s family and friends, acknowledging the coach’s remarkable impact at JMU and beyond.
Driesell’s legacy includes numerous accolades and honors, including his induction into the Naismith Hall of Fame in 2018, the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame in 2007, and the JMU Athletics Hall in 2005. During his tenure as JMU head coach from 1988-1997, Driesell compiled a 159-111 record in nine seasons, leading the Dukes to the CAA Championship and an NCAA Tournament appearance in 1994. Additionally, the team made NIT appearances in 1990, 1991, 1992, and 1993 as part of one of the best five-year stretches in program history.
Driesell’s impact extends beyond his coaching achievements, as he holds the distinction of being the only coach in NCAA history to have been named conference Coach of the Year in four different conferences, including the Southern Conference, Atlantic Coast Conference, Colonial Athletic Association, and Atlantic Sun Conference.
As one of the winningest head coaches in NCAA history, Driesell’s career included notable coaching stints at Davidson College, the University of Maryland, JMU, and Georgia State. His achievements and influence spanned multiple decades and programs, solidifying his status as a true icon in the world of college basketball.
Driesell’s personal connections to JMU were also notable, with his son, Chuck Driesell, serving on his coaching staff from 1989-1996, and two of his children graduating from JMU. His lasting impact on the university and the sport of college basketball will continue to be remembered and celebrated by the entire athletic community.
The legacy of Charles “Lefty” Driesell lives on as the college basketball world mourns the loss of a true coaching legend.
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