Hall of Fame coach Charles Grice ‘Lefty’ Driesell dies at 92

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LOS ANGELES, Feb 18, (Agencies): Charles Grice, widely known as “Lefty” Driesell, the iconic Hall of Fame basketball coach, passed away at the age of 92. His significant contributions to the University of Maryland’s basketball program, transforming it into a national powerhouse, are remembered with deep reverence. The university announced his death on Saturday morning, marking the end of an era in college basketball.

In a news release, the university acknowledged Driesell as a legendary figure in the sport, leaving an indelible mark not only on Maryland basketball but also on the broader college basketball community. Damon Evans, the Barry P. Gossett Director of Athletics at Maryland, paid tribute to Driesell, describing him as a transcendent figure who elevated Maryland basketball to national prominence during his coaching tenure.

Evans emphasized Driesell’s status as a Hall of Famer, highlighting his innovative coaching style and forward-thinking marketing strategies. Born in Norfolk, Va., and an alumnus of Duke University, Driesell enjoyed a remarkable coaching career, securing 786 victories. He achieved a unique distinction by becoming the first and only coach to guide four different Division I schools to 100 victories in basketball before retiring.

Driesell’s legacy extends beyond his coaching prowess; he is credited with the creation of the tradition known as “Midnight Madness.” This innovative concept involved making his players run a mile on the track inside the Maryland football stadium just three minutes after the first official day of NCAA practice, adding a distinctive and memorable element to college basketball culture.

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