After a bout with melanoma, Hall of Fame Coach Jack Ramsay, passed away at the age of 89. His death was announced today by ESPN, the network where he spent much of his broadcasting time with.
Ramsay was diagnosed with melanoma in 2004 and later battled growths and tumors that spread to his legs, lungs and brain, then later fought prostate cancer and most recently a marrow syndrome.
“Today, the NBA family mourns the loss of one of the true legends of our game, Dr. Jack Ramsay,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. “From his coaching tenure to his broadcast work, Dr. Jack left an indelible mark on every facet of our game and on every person he came in contact with, including me. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and many friends.”
Well respected in the basketball world for his passion for the game, his colorful sports jackets and zone offense, Ramsay won an NBA title in his first season in the front office of the Philadelphia 76ers—his hometown team in 1968. Ramsay coached the Portland Trailblazers to an NBA championship in 1977 and in the 80s, Ramsay was the first coach hired by Pacers executive Donnie Walsh. During his tenure with the team, Ramsay was 79-92 and helped the franchise win their first playoff game under the of the Simons family in 1987. Ramsay spent nine years as a television color commentator for the Philadelphia 76ers and the Miami Heat and continued to do NBA work with ESPN and ESPN Radio.
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