Jim Valvano's far-reaching contributions to basketball make him natural Hall of Fame pick
Posted April 1, 2023 3:37 p.m. EDT
Updated August 11, 2023 6:58 p.m. EDT
Raleigh, N.C. — Jim Valvano's induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame this Saturday comes as no surprise to sports fans and those of us in the Triangle who saw Valvano's flair and splendor up close.
Valvano's efforts to inspire, collaborate and cherish the moment reverberated throughout the basketball world - as a player, coach, broadcaster, analyst and advocate for cancer research - made him part of the 2023 class.
It's another recognition for Valvano, who's influence on the game is still felt 40 years after he ran around looking for someone to hug after NC State's 1983 national championship, 30 years after his "don't give up" speech at the ESPYs and 10 years after the popular documentary "Survive and Advance," resurfaced fond memories of Valvano's "Cardiac Pack" teams.
Valvano is making the class as a contributor. Included in Valvano's body of work is his time as a broadcaster with ESPN/ABC and outspoken advocacy for fighting cancer. His ESPYs speech launched a renewed focus on cancer research and was the birth of The V Foundation, which maintains close ties with ESPN, college basketball and the Triangle.
The 1983 team had the same penchant for the dramatic, winning numerous games in the closing minutes and facilitating maybe the most incredible finish to a national championship in college basketball history against the heavily-favored Houston Cougars. The propensity for last-second heroics lifted the profile of the sport and etched State in Tobacco Road lore with its second title. The 1983 team was honored this season during a game at PNC Arena.
Valvano coached NC State from 1980 to 1990 and was named State's athletic director in 1986. He was diagnosed with cancer in 1992 and died in April 1993, weeks after creating the foundation. He joins a group that will be enshrined on Aug. 11 and 12 at ceremonies in Connecticut and Massachusetts.
NC State legends Valvano, Kay Yow, David Thompson and Everett Case are also in the Naismith Hall of Fame.
The class will be headlined by three stars from around the globe in Dirk Nowitzki, Tony Parker and Pau Gasol. Joining them are Dwyane Wade, Becky Hammon and Gregg Popovich.
