Jim Valvano’s Legacy Honored at the Jimmy V Classic: A Tribute to His Impact on College Basketball

The Jimmy V Classic, scheduled to take place on December 10, 2024, at Madison Square Garden, is a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of Coach Jim Valvano. Valvano, an exuberant and charismatic figure from Queens, New York, left an indelible mark on college basketball. He is best remembered for leading the North Carolina State University Wolfpack to one of the most improbable national championships in NCAA history in 1983.

Valvano’s North Carolina State team, which finished the regular season with a modest 17-10 record, embarked on a miraculous run through the ACC and NCAA tournaments. Despite being heavy underdogs, the Wolfpack defeated several highly favored teams, including Ralph Sampson‘s Virginia and the No. 1 ranked Houston Cougars, nicknamed “Phi Slama Jama” for their high-flying offense. The championship game against Houston is famously remembered for Dereck Whittenburg’s 35-foot desperation heave that was put through the net by Lorenzo Charles as the final buzzer sounded, securing the title for NC State.

Valvano’s legacy extends beyond his coaching achievements. He was a passionate advocate for cancer research, and his battle with cancer ended tragically in 1993 at the age of 47. The V Foundation for Cancer Research, established in his honor, has since funded over $353 million in cancer research grants. The Jimmy V Classic, part of the V Foundation’s efforts, continues to raise money and awareness for cancer research.

This year’s Jimmy V Classic features top-ranked teams, including the Tennessee Volunteers and the Arkansas Razorbacks, coached by John Calipari, who has a long history with the event. Calipari’s team will face off against Michigan, marking an important test before they begin their SEC schedule. The event serves as a reminder of Valvano’s impact on the sport and his ongoing contribution to the fight against cancer.