On November 2 Hall of Famer and legendary basketball coach Bob Knight passed away at the 83. His amazing achievements like the three national titles at Indiana or coaching the U.S. Olympic team for a gold medal in Los Angeles and so much more will be his legacy.
Known for his incredible contribution to sports he is grieved and remembered by many whose lives he made better at some point. One such person is another legendary player Dottie Pepper herself who tells how Knight uplifted her.
Dottie Pepper recalls Bob Knight’s sweet gesture for her
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Earlier this year in the month of April Bob Knight was hospitalized because of illness as he was suffering from bad health for many years. Yesterday he made his journey to the other side. Among people who remember his good deeds is Dottie Pepper who recalls her encounter with him.
Upon hearing the news Pepper made a tweet in which she wrote, “So sad learning of the passing of Bobby Knight. Coming off a mega-low in my @LPGA career, I met Coach in June of ‘96 in Fort Wayne. He said, “You could play for me.” I said, “No, Coach. I’d be a bricklayer.” He said, “Yes, you could. You’re tough enough.”
“Turned my season around. Went on to win 4 times before the 2nd week of September. Thank you for believing in me, Coach, and rest in peace.” Knight took no time in recognizing the talent that Pepper was and continues to be despite her slump at that time.
So sad learning of the passing of Bobby Knight. Coming off a mega-low in my @LPGA career, I met Coach in June of ‘96 in Fort Wayne. He said, “You could play for me.” I said, “No, Coach. I’d be a bricklayer.” He said, “Yes, you could. You’re tough enough.” Turned my season around.…
— Dottie Pepper (@dottie_pepper) November 2, 2023
Colleagues like former Hoosiers player Mike Woodson, Mike Krzyzewski, former Duke coach, Quinn Buckner, Chairperson of Indiana University board of trustees, and many others with whom he had worked also remembered him.
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Bob Knight’s family released a statement announcing his demise
His family made the announcement of his passing away by releasing a statement. “It is with heavy hearts that we share that Coach Bob Knight passed away at his home in Bloomington surrounded by his family. We are grateful for all the thoughts and prayers, and appreciate the continued respect for our privacy as Coach requested a private family gathering, which is being honored.”
Knight will be remembered not only by family and friends but also by the fans who were much rewarded by his association with sports.
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