Former Kennesaw State Basketball Coach, Cobb Native Amir Abdur-Rahim Dies, celebration of life services planned at KSU

Amir Abdur-Rahim, a well-respected basketball coach and former Kennesaw State standout, has passed away at the age of 43 after battling an aggressive illness. A Cobb County native, Abdur-Rahim made history as the only men’s basketball coach to lead Kennesaw State to the NCAA Tournament in its Division I history. Amir was entering his second season as the coach at South Florida. He is survived by his wife and three children.

Abdur-Rahim, a former Wheeler High School player and younger brother of former NBA star and current NBA G League president Shareef Abdur-Rahim, began his transformative impact at Kennesaw State in 2019. He took over a team that went 1-28 in his first season but quickly turned the program around. By the 2022-23 season, Abdur-Rahim led the Owls to a 26-9 finish, an ASUN Championship, and a thrilling NCAA Tournament debut, nearly upsetting Xavier in the first round. His leadership and focus on player development left a lasting legacy at Kennesaw State, one celebrated by both the players he coached and colleagues like football coach Brian Bohannon.

In 2023, Abdur-Rahim took on the role of head coach at South Florida, where he led the Bulls to a 25-8 record, an AAC regular-season title, and an NIT appearance, earning him AAC Coach of the Year honors. Known for his infectious personality and dedication, he maintained close ties with Kennesaw State, celebrating with his former players during their ASUN championship ring ceremony.

Kennesaw State current athletic director, Milton Overton, said in a release, “Amir Abdur-Rahim left a legacy not only at Kennesaw State, but throughout his life. Owl Nation will forever remember how he molded young men into champions on the court and in their lives.”

South Florida athletic director Michael Kelly expressed deep sorrow, acknowledging Abdur-Rahim’s impact on the university and community.

Shareef Abdur-Rahim shared a heartfelt message, thanking the community for their support and asking for prayers for the family.

Abdur-Rahim leaves a lasting impact on student-athletes and the communities in Georgia and Florida.

Before his remarkable tenure at Kennesaw State, where he led the program to its first NCAA Tournament appearance, Abdur-Rahim made a name for himself as an assistant coach at Texas A&M (2014-2018) and Georgia (2018-2019). During his time with the Bulldogs, he notably recruited future NBA star Anthony Edwards.

After high school, Abdur-Rahim played at Garden City Community College and later at Southeastern Louisiana, where he finished his collegiate career. He began coaching in 2006 as an assistant at Murray State, followed by a position at the College of Charleston in 2012, steadily building a reputation for his coaching skill and commitment to his players’ growth.

His brother, Shareef Abdur-Rahim, shared a heartfelt message on social media, quoting, “From God, we come, and to God, we must all return.” He expressed the family’s gratitude for the support they have received and asked for prayers in this difficult time.

Kennesaw State University will honor the legacy of former head coach Amir Abdur-Rahim with a celebration of life service on Sunday, October 27, at the KSU Convocation Center. The event is open to the public, but seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Fans who wish to attend are encouraged to watch the service live on KSUOwls.com to ensure ample seating for family and friends.

Parking for the event is free, and no tickets are required for entry. Doors will open at 4:00 p.m., and the service will begin at 5:00 p.m., lasting approximately two hours.

In lieu of flowers, the Abdur-Rahim family has requested donations to The Future Foundation. Click here to donate.