The University of Louisville basketball community mourns the loss of Denny Crum, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 86, according to his family. Crum, a legendary figure in college basketball, was the head coach of the Louisville Cardinals from 1971 to 2001.

The cause of his death was not revealed, but according to the Associated Press, Crum was battling an extended illness. Crum married Susan Sweeney – a reporter, in 2001. His net worth was $89 Million.

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During his tenure, he led the team to two national championships in 1980 and 1986 and guided the Cardinals to six Final Four appearances. Crum’s contribution to the university’s basketball program is immeasurable, and his legacy will forever be etched in the annals of college basketball history. The news of his passing has elicited an outpouring of condolences from fans and fellow coaches across the nation.

Current Cardinals head coach Kenny Payne said in a statement: “Today is a sad day for me personally, as well as the basketball world. My thoughts go through all the lessons that he taught, not just to me, but every player he ever came in contact with. Those lessons are still relevant today.”

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“We were so blessed to have him in our lives. He was a true treasure who gave so much to the university and the community. We must keep his memory alive. My prayers go out to his family and especially Susan,” he added.

Crum coached the Louisville Cardinals from 1971 to 2001, during which he compiled a record of 675-295, giving him a winning percentage of .696. He led the Cardinals to 23 NCAA Tournament appearances, two national championships, six Final Four appearances, and 11 conference titles.

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Crum was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1994, cementing his place among the all-time greats of college basketball coaching.