Georgetown Coach John Thompson Jr. dies at age 78

Legendary Georgetown coach John Thompson Jr., known as “Big John” throughout college basketball, has died at age 78. He was the first Black coach to lead a team to the N.C.A.A. men’s basketball championship, he helped mold N.B.A. stars like Patrick Ewing and Allen Iverson

Thompson, who led Georgetown to the 1984 national championship, built the program into a juggernaut, taking the Hoyas to three Final Fours in the 1980s while also winning seven Big East titles and leading the 1988 United States national team to a bronze medal in the Olympics.

“We are heartbroken to share the news of the passing of our father, John Thompson, Jr,” the Thompson family said in a statement released by Georgetown. “Our father was an inspiration to many and devoted his life to developing young people not simply on, but most importantly, off the basketball court. He is revered as a historic shepherd of the sport, dedicated to the welfare of his community above all else.

“However, for us, his greatest legacy remains as a father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. More than a coach, he was our foundation. More than a legend, he was the voice in our ear everyday. We will miss him but are grounded in the assurance that we carry his faith and determination in us. We will cherish forever his strength, courage, wisdom and boldness, as well as his unfailing love.

“We know that he will be deeply missed by many and our family appreciates your condolences and prayers. But don’t worry about him, because as he always liked to say, ‘Big Ace is cool.'” READ MORE

EARLY LIFE

John Robert Thompson Jr. was born on Sept. 2, 1941, in Washington. His father was a laborer who could not read or write. Thompson was a star center at Archbishop Carroll High School in Washington before leading Providence, a Dominican school, to the 1963 National Invitation Tournament title and, the next year, its first N.C.A.A. tournament appearance.

He graduated with a degree in economics and later earned a master’s degree in guidance and counseling at the University of the District of Columbia. Thompson was a third-round draft pick of the Celtics in 1964 but saw only limited action playing behind Russell. He retired from the N.B.A. after two seasons.

He became a guidance counselor and coached at St. Anthony High School in Washington, compiling a 122-28 record, before Georgetown hired him.