TAMPA, Fla. — Saturday, the University of South Florida said goodbye to basketball coach Amir Abdur-Rahim, who died on Oct. 24 after undergoing a medical procedure at an area hospital.

What You Need To Know

  • A celebration of life was held for USF men's basketball coach Amir Abdur-Rahim, who died on Oct. 24 

  • Several speakers of the Yuengling Center spoke of Amir's impact on them and the university 

  • This season, players will wear patches on their jerseys in Amir's honor and the student section will be named after him

Hundreds of people filled the Yuengling Center for a celebration of life, where several speakers honored a coach that was preparing to build off a first year that saw 25 wins.

“He loved how you rallied behind him,” said Arianne Adbur-Rahim, the wife of Amir, to the crowd. “And what he was trying to build here. I venture to say he built something special.”

The impact Amir made on his family, players, fellow coaches and the entire Bulls community could be felt through the entire arena.

“I know what his impact was,” said Ben Fletcher, the USF men’s basketball interim head coach. “I know it. I know where he’s at now. I don’t worry about that part. The people I worry about are the people in the front row. Just know he was a special person. He did some special things and I think you guys know that.”

Players also took the podium, speaking of the mark Amir left of them in his short time with the team.

“It’s not about what happens, but it’s how you respond,” said Bulls guard Jayden Reid. “Obviously we all have a ton of emotions built up right now, but I think as a community the way we should respond to this is to honor him with everything we do in life and by loving others the way he did.”

This season, players will wear patches on their jerseys in Amir’s honor and the student section will be named after him.

“Amir always said job not finished. But I’m confident when he entered heaven’s gate God said job well done,” said Arianne.