The Milwaukee Bucks have announced Joe Wolf, a former North Carolina captain for Dean Smith, played for seven teams in the NBA over an 11-year career before becoming a head coach. He died unexpectedly at the age of 59.
Prior to taking over as head coach of the G League’s Greensboro Swarm in 2018, Wolf served as an assistant head coach for a considerable amount of time. He was also in the midst of his careers as an assistant coach with the G League’s Wisconsin Herd.
“Off the court, Joe was a beloved brother, uncle, friend and community leader,” the statement from the Bucks continued. “We send our deepest condolences to Joe’s family and friends. The Bucks and Herd will always be grateful to Joe for his hard work and commitment to our organization. He will be missed.
Joe Wolf was a high school All-American in 1983 before joining the Tar Heels to play alongside the likes of Michael Jordan and Sam Perkins. He was a co-captain for the Tar Heels as a senior in 1986-87, sharing that role with Kenny Smith.
Wolf played at UNC from 1983 to 1987, averaging 9.6 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists while shooting 55.1% from the field. His greatest season was his senior year, when he averaged 15.2 points, 7.1 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.3 steals in 34 games and was named a First-Team All-ACC performance.
People reacting to Joe Wolf’s death
Yesterday marked an extremely sad day for basketball, and an even sadder day for those of us fortunate enough to know Joe off the court as well.
Beno Udrih
(@BenoUdrih1) September 28, 2024
Really saddened to learn of the passing for former Kohler Basketball star, former @UNC Tar Heel – and former @Bucks and @WisconsinHerd assistant coach Joe Wolf. Such a nice man, gone much, much too soon. Apparent heart attack, age 59. Deepest condolences to his family.
Doug Russell
Sad day for @UNC_Basketball family. Joe Wolf has passed away. Great Tar Heel – played all four years! Terrific UNC career… long run in NBA… wonderful to see him as an assistant with Ukraine at EuroBasket 2013 in Ljubljana. Gone way too soon at 59. RIP
(@JeffreyNTaylor) September 27, 2024
It is a good sign that all these fans are in Joe Wolf’s thoughts. People may not have been alive to witness this man’s play, but they admire him as a person rather than just a basketball player.
Follow me on Twitter @leviomeke and follow us @wisconsinsportsheroics for more great content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in Wisconsin sports, click here.
