Jim Valvano, American basketball player, coach, and sportscaster (b. 1946)

James Thomas Anthony Valvano, affectionately known as Jimmy V, was a vibrant and unforgettable figure in American sports. Born on March 10, 1946, and passing too soon on April 28, 1993, Valvano left an indelible mark as a college basketball player, an iconic coach, and a beloved broadcaster. His life was a testament to passion, resilience, and an unwavering spirit, particularly remembered for his incredible coaching triumphs and his enduring message of hope in the face of adversity.

A Life in Basketball: Player, Coach, Broadcaster

Valvano's journey in basketball began as a talented player, a point guard at Rutgers University, where he captained the team and graduated in 1967. His transition into coaching quickly followed, taking him through various collegiate programs where he honed his strategic acumen and charismatic leadership. Before arriving at North Carolina State University (NC State), Valvano coached at Johns Hopkins, Bucknell, and Iona, steadily building a reputation for his dynamic personality and innovative approach to the game. It was at NC State, however, that his career reached its zenith, transforming the Wolfpack into a national contender. After his coaching tenure, Valvano brought his unique blend of humor and insight to the broadcasting booth, becoming a popular and respected commentator, sharing his love for the game with a broader audience.

The Improbable 1983 NCAA Championship

A Cinderella Story for the Ages

The defining moment of Jimmy V's coaching career, and arguably one of the most celebrated upsets in college basketball history, came in 1983 when he led the NC State Wolfpack to an NCAA Division I men's basketball title. This victory was against all odds, a true Cinderella story that captivated the nation. The Wolfpack, considered significant underdogs throughout the tournament, defied expectations with a series of nail-biting wins, culminating in a legendary championship game against the formidable Houston Cougars. The Cougars, famously known as "Phi Slama Jama" for their athletic, high-flying style and featuring future NBA Hall of Famers Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler, were heavily favored to win.

The Ecstatic Celebration

In a dramatic finish that is forever etched in sports lore, NC State clinched the title with an improbable last-second dunk. As the final buzzer sounded, signaling the Wolfpack's stunning 54-52 victory, Valvano's reaction became instantly iconic. He famously sprinted onto the court, frantically searching for someone, anyone, to embrace in a spontaneous outpouring of pure, unadulterated joy. This ecstatic celebration, filled with tears and unbridled emotion, perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the underdog triumph and Jimmy V's infectious passion for the game and his team.

A Legacy of Hope: The ESPY Speech and The V Foundation

Beyond his coaching prowess, Jimmy Valvano is perhaps most profoundly remembered for an incredibly moving and inspirational speech he delivered at the inaugural ESPY Awards on March 4, 1993. At this point, Valvano was terminally ill with adenocarcinoma, a virulent form of cancer that would claim his life less than two months later. Despite his declining health, he stood before an audience of athletes and celebrities, delivering a powerful address that resonated deeply and continues to inspire millions.

In his unforgettable speech, Valvano implored everyone to live each day to the fullest by engaging in three essential actions: to laugh, to think, and to cry. He emphasized the importance of humor in adversity, the necessity of thoughtful reflection, and the cleansing power of emotional release. It was during this very speech that he made a pivotal announcement: the formation of The V Foundation for Cancer Research. With a rallying cry that would become its enduring motto, he declared, "Don't give up. Don't ever give up." This moment transformed his personal battle into a collective fight against cancer, establishing a foundation dedicated to funding groundbreaking research.

Enduring Tributes and Impact

Jimmy V's spirit continues to live on through several impactful tributes. The ESPY Awards annually present the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance, named in his honor, to a deserving member of the sports community who has overcome significant obstacles through perseverance and determination. Furthermore, each year, a significant college basketball tournament, the Jimmy V Classic, is held to honor his memory and to raise awareness and funds in support of cancer victims and survivors. The V Foundation for Cancer Research, born from his vision, has since grown into a formidable force, raising hundreds of millions of dollars to fund innovative cancer research and make significant strides toward finding a cure, truly embodying his powerful message of never giving up.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jimmy V

What was Jimmy V's full name?
His full name was James Thomas Anthony Valvano.
Which college basketball team did Jimmy V lead to a national championship?
He famously coached the North Carolina State University (NC State) Wolfpack to the 1983 NCAA Division I men's basketball title.
What was unique about NC State's 1983 championship victory?
It was considered one of the greatest upsets in college basketball history, as NC State was a significant underdog team that defeated the heavily-favored Houston Cougars, known as "Phi Slama Jama," in a dramatic final game.
What significant foundation did Jimmy V establish?
He established The V Foundation for Cancer Research during his memorable 1993 ESPY Awards speech.
What is The V Foundation's motto?
The V Foundation's inspiring motto, coined by Jimmy V himself, is "Don't give up. Don't ever give up."
What awards or events are named in Jimmy V's honor?
The ESPY Awards include the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance, and there is an annual college basketball tournament called the Jimmy V Classic, both honoring his legacy and supporting cancer research.