Legendary basketball coach Bob Knight has passed away at the age of 83, his family announced.
Knight, hospitalized in April this year, established a basketball coaching career considered among the most colorful in the sport's history.
He was also a pioneer of the motion offense and reverse action that many professional teams employ today.
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He led the Indiana Hoosiers into three national titles, including a season where they went undefeated. The latter is a feat that remains to be duplicated.
"It is with heavy hearts that we share that Coach Bob Knight passed away at his home in Bloomington surrounded by his family," his family's statement read.
The family added, "We are grateful for all the thoughts and prayers, and appreciate the continued respect for our privacy as Coach requested a private family gathering, which is being honored."
Tributes poured in for Knight
Fans, players, and coaches offered condolences and tribute for the befallen coach.
Indiana Pacers coach Mike Woodson, a former Hoosiers player, credited Knight for the career that he has today.
"I am so blessed that he saw something in me as a basketball player," he said. "He influenced my life in ways I could never repay. As he did with all of his players, he always challenged me to get the most out of myself as a player and, more importantly, as a person."
Knight's former college rival and Duke's legendary coach, Mike Krzyzewski, also recalled the trust given to him by Knight.
"Coach Knight recruited me, mentored me, and had a profound impact on my career and in my life. This is a tremendous loss for our sport and our family is deeply saddened by his passing."
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