Former basketball coach and Nike executive George Raveling dies at 88 - Cause of death

College basketball coach and former Nike executive, George Raveling, was pronounced dead at the age of 88 on Monday, September 01. The news was made public a day later, on September 02.

Beginning his head coaching career at Washington State, he served as Nike's global basketball sports marketing director from 1994, until he died in 2025. The basketball world is in mourning as it loses someone so important to the sport, who was so profoundly impacted by his presence.

How did George Raveling die?

Nike's Director of International Basketball passed away on September 01, 2025, after a. long and courageous battle with cancer. He was the company's global basketball sports marketing director until his death, after a long coaching career, which included his stint as the assistant coach for the United States men's national basketball team. In a statement on Tuesday, his family revealed:"It is with deep sadness and unimaginable pain that we share the passing of our beloved 'Coach,' George Henry Raveling."

On his official Twitter account, the Raveling Family posted a note after his passing, where they stated that he passed away after an arduous battle with cancer.

World of basketball mourns the passing of George Raveling

From the USC men's basketball team to the NCAA to the USA basketball team, anyone who knew and loved George Raveling is saddened by the news of his passing. He was an absolute part when it came to the profession of basketball, a game he loved with all his being. Which is why, everyone who was a part of his journey is at a loss.

It is with profound sadness that Coach Raveling leaves the world of basketball. Fans around the world wish the Raveling family all the love and support in such trying times. Also Read: George Raveling passes away at 88, remembered as Hall of Fame coach and Nike executive behind Michael Jordan deal