Basketball Hall of Famer George Raveling Dies at 88 Influenced Michael Jordan Nike Deal

George Raveling, Hall of Fame basketball coach and influential figure in sports, passed away at 88 after battling cancer. Over a 22-year coaching career at Washington State, Iowa, and USC, he compiled a 335-293 record and led teams to multiple NCAA Tournaments, earning Pac-10 Coach of the Year honors three times. Raveling played a pivotal role in Michael Jordan's historic endorsement deal with Nike by encouraging Jordan to sign with the company and introducing him to Nike executive Sonny Vaccaro, which led to the creation of the Air Jordan brand that revolutionized sports marketing. Beyond basketball, Raveling was present at the 1963 March on Washington as security for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and preserved the original typewritten copy of King's "I Have a Dream" speech, later donating it to Villanova University. Michael Jordan expressed deep gratitude for Raveling's mentorship and guidance, highlighting his profound impact on his life and career. Raveling's legacy extends beyond wins and losses, as he inspired countless players and colleagues with his wisdom, energy, and commitment to others.