Remembering Lefty Driesell: A Basketball Coaching Legend
Lefty Driesell, the Hall of Fame coach known for his fiery on-court demeanor, passed away at the age of 92 in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Maryland honored Driesell with a moment of silence before their game against No. 14 Illinois, donning throwback uniforms as a tribute.
A Legacy of Success
Driesell’s coaching career spanned five decades, with 786 victories at four NCAA Division I schools. He brought Maryland to national prominence from 1969-86 and later found success at James Madison and Georgia State. Driesell’s impact on the game extended beyond wins and losses, as he was a trailblazer in recruiting and promoting diversity in college basketball.
Midnight Madness and Breaking Barriers
Driesell pioneered the tradition of Midnight Madness in 1971, marking the start of college basketball practice with a unique event. He also played a significant role in breaking racial barriers by hiring the first Black coach in the ACC and recruiting African American players to top programs.
Challenges and Achievements
Despite not achieving his “UCLA of the East” goal at Maryland, Driesell’s teams had notable successes, including ACC titles and memorable games. His coaching style, marked by a mix of intensity on the court and charm off it, left a lasting impact on the sport and players he mentored.
Legacy and Family
After a storied coaching career, Driesell retired with a record of 786-394, ranking among the top NCAA Division I coaches in wins. He is survived by four children and leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of college basketball.