Former NBA player and coach Joe Wolf died unexpectedly at the age of 59.
His death was announced on social media by the Milwaukee Bucks, Sept. 26.
“The Milwaukee Bucks and Wisconsin Herd are deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of Herd assistant coach and Kohler native Joe Wolf,” the team said in a statement via X. “Throughout his life, Joe touched many lives and was a highly respected, adored and dedicated coach and player across the NBA.”
Wolf’s cause of death was not disclosed.
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) September 26, 2024
The Milwaukee Bucks went on to say, “His well-regarded talent was instrumental for the Bucks and Herd over eight years with the organization, including as a player and coach.”
The team spoke on a personal level about the deep loss felt across the basketball community, as they paid tribute to a true trailblazer in the sport.
“Off the court, Joe was a beloved brother, uncle, friend and community leader,” they said.
“We send our deepest condolences to Joe’s family and friends. The Bucks and Herd will always be grateful to Joe for his hard work and commitment to our organization. He will be missed.”
LANDOVER, MD – JANUARY 09: Joe Wolf #24 of the Los Angeles Clippers passes the ball during a NBA basketball game against the Washington Bullets at Capital Centre on January 9, 1988 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
Wolf’s career as a NBA player spanned across 11 years, from 1987 and 1999. He played for seven teams before he became a coach. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Clippers in the 1987 NBA draft, then went on to play with the Denver Nuggets, Boston Celtics, Portland Trail Blazers, Charlotte Hornets, Orlando Magic and the Milwaukee Bucks.
He played alongside some of the NBA’s greats, including Michael Jordan and Sam Perkins.
Social media immediately erupted with tributes and words of condolences as fans from across the globe took a moment to pay their final respects to a true legend in the sport. (RELATED: Legendary Actress Barbara Leigh-Hunt From Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘Frenzy’ Dead At 88)
Wolf’s funeral arrangements were not disclosed.
This article was originally published at dailycaller.com
