11-Year NBA Veteran Has Died Unexpectedly At 59
09/26/2024 08:24 PM
Joe Wolf, who played 11 seasons in the NBA before embarking on a 20-year coaching career in college and professionally, has passed away at the age of 59.
A Kohler, Wisc. native, Wolf spent last season as an assistant coach with the Wisconsin Herd, the Milwaukee Bucks' G League affiliate. He also played for the Bucks in 1996-97 and was an assistant for the franchise from 2008-13.
"Throughout his life, Joe touched many lives and was a highly-respected, adored and dedicated coach and player across the NBA," the Bucks said in a statement Thursday night. "His well-regarded talent was instrumental for the Bucks and Herd over eight years with the organization, including as a player and coach."
"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."
A Parade All-American as a senior in high school in 1983, Wolf went on to star at the University of North Carolina. He was a first-team All-ACC selection as a senior before being picked No. 13 overall in the 1987 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Clippers.
Wolf played in 592 NBA regular season over 11 seasons--he spent the 1993-94 campaign in Spain--before retiring following the 1998-99 season.
He averaged 4.2 points and 3.3 rebounds per game while playing for the Clippers, Bucks, Denver Nuggets, Boston Celtics, Portland Trail Blazers, Charlotte Hornets and Orlando Magic.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Wolf's family and friends. May he rest in peace.
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