Legendary Basketball coach John Thompson dies

African American Coach John Thompson, who led the Georgetown University Hoyas basketball team to victory at the 1984 national championship, has breathed his last at the age of 78.

According to the details, Thompson, who was the first black coach to win the title, is credited with boosting minority representation in college basketball during the 1980s.

John Thompson is the coach having most victories in Georgetown history with 596 wins and led the Hoyas to three NCAA Final Fours in 1982, ‘84 and ‘85.

Thompson produced four future Naismith Hall of Famers in Patrick Ewing, Dikembe Mutombo, Alonzo Mourning and Allen Iverson.

After his death, his family in a statement said:

“We are heartbroken to share the news of the passing of our father, John Thompson, Jr.”

“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.”