The basketball community mourns the loss of legendary Hall of Fame coach Charles Grice “Lefty” Driesell, who passed away at the age of 92. Driesell’s remarkable coaching career spanned 41 seasons, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Driesell’s Coaching Journey:
- Driesell coached at Davidson, Maryland, James Madison, and Georgia State, achieving 786 wins in his illustrious career.
- Known for his distinctive personality, Virginia Tidewater drawl, and comic storytelling, Driesell made a lasting impression beyond his coaching achievements.
Achievements and Contributions:
- Coached four different Division I schools to 100 victories each, reaching the NCAA tournament at all four institutions.
- Led Maryland and Davidson to the Elite Eight twice each.
- Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2018, finally receiving the recognition many believed was long overdue.
Maryland Legacy:
- Coached Maryland from 1969 to 1986, making bold promises and turning the program into a powerhouse.
- Despite not winning an NCAA title, Driesell led the Terrapins to significant accomplishments, including eight NCAA tournament appearances and an NIT championship.
Midnight Madness and “The Maryland Rule”:
- Credited with inventing Midnight Madness, a tradition where teams hold their first practice at midnight.
- Influential in the creation of at-large bids in the NCAA tournament, known as “The Maryland Rule,” following a memorable ACC tournament game in 1974.
Controversial Departure from Maryland:
- Driesell’s tenure at Maryland ended in 1986 after the tragic death of Len Bias.
- Cleared of wrongdoing by a grand jury, he was reassigned to athletic department duties, eventually leaving the university in 1988.
Success at James Madison and Georgia State:
- Coached James Madison to multiple CAA championships and an NCAA tournament appearance.
- Enjoyed success at Georgia State, retiring in 2003 with a 103-59 record over six seasons.
Conclusion:
Charles ‘Lefty’ Driesell’s impact on college basketball extended far beyond the court. His coaching legacy, colorful personality, and contributions to the game will be remembered fondly by fans and the basketball community alike. As we bid farewell to a coaching icon, let us celebrate the remarkable journey of a true basketball legend.
