Larry Finch, Legendary University of Memphis Basketball Coach, Dead at 60

Former player and coach for the University of Memphis (Memphis State University) men’s basketball team, Larry Finch is reported dead. Finch, reportedly, died on Saturday, April 2, 2011 at St. Francis Hospital at the age of 60, according to sources.

Larry Finch who suffered a minor stroke in 2001, then a debilitating stroke in 2002 has been in declining health since suffering from multiple strokes as well as a heart attack. Finch also had complications from his diabetes which resulted in both of his legs being amputated.

The former coach and legend is most known for leading the University of Memphis Tigers, then known as the “Memphis State Tigers,” in 1973 to the NCAA men’s basketball championship game.

Also in 1973, Finch was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers, however he decided to join the Memphis Tams and play professionally for two years. He is stated to have played for the Memphis Sounds, the Baltimore Hustlers and Baltimore Claws.

Larry Finch coached the Memphis Tigers from 1986 until 1997.