Home / Sports / Legendary Coach Ron Abernathy, Who Recruited Shaq, Dies at 75
Legendary Coach Ron Abernathy, Who Recruited Shaq, Dies at 75
26 Jun
Summary
- Ron Abernathy, a former Tennessee State coach, passed away at 75.
- He played a key role in recruiting NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O'Neal.
- Abernathy recently retired from coaching Humboldt High in March 2026.
Ron Abernathy, a respected figure in college and high school basketball, has passed away at 75. Abernathy, formerly the head coach at Tennessee State University, was also recognized for his significant role as an assistant coach at LSU, where he helped recruit NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal.
His coaching career spanned several decades, including two seasons at Tennessee State from 1990 to 1991. Abernathy later moved to Florida, working as a social worker and coaching at the high school level before returning to Tennessee.
In 2006, he took on the athletic director and men's basketball coach roles at Lane College, becoming its winningest coach. Most recently, Abernathy coached at Humboldt High School, retiring on March 22, 2026, after more than 200 wins and being named TSSAA State Coach of the Year in 2019.
Abernathy's impact on the sport was highlighted by his "dynamic coaching philosophy" and "deep knowledge of the game." Funeral arrangements are currently pending.
