Joe Wolf (1964-2024) American basketball player and coach
Joe Wolf was an American basketball player and coach, Joe Wolf (1964-2024) American basketball player and coach,Joe Wolf (1964-2024) Find a Grave Memorial
Joe Wolf
Birth: 17 December 1964
Birthplace: Kohler, Ozaukee County, Wisconsin, United States
Death: 26 September 2024 (aged 59)
Deathplace: United States
Burial: Burial Details Unknown
Memorial ID: 275117487 · View Source
Height: 6 ft 11 in (2.11 m)
Weight: 230 lb (104 kg)
High School: Kohler (Kohler, Wisconsin)
College: North Carolina (1983–1987)
NBA Draft: 1987: 1st round, 13th overall pick
Selected by: Los Angeles Clippers
Playing Career: 1987–1999
Position: Power forward / center
Numbers: 24, 42, 6, 43, 12, 23, 17, 30
Coaching Career: 2003–2024
As Player:
1987–1990: Los Angeles Clippers
1990–1992: Denver Nuggets
1992: Boston Celtics
1992–1993: Portland Trail Blazers
1993–1994: León
1994–1995: Charlotte Hornets
1995–1996: Orlando Magic
1996–1997: Milwaukee Bucks
1997–1998: Denver Nuggets
1999: Charlotte Hornets
As Coach:
2003–2004: William & Mary (assistant)
2004–2006: Idaho Stampede
2006–2008: Colorado 14ers
2008–2013: Milwaukee Bucks (assistant)
2014–2017: Brooklyn Nets (assistant)
2017–2018: UNC Wilmington (assistant)
2018–2020: Greensboro Swarm
2023–2024: Wisconsin Herd (assistant)
Career Highlights:
First-team All-ACC (1987)
First-team Parade All-American (1983)
Career NBA Statistics:
Points: 2,485 (4.2 ppg)
Rebounds: 1,933 (3.3 rpg)
Joe Wolf Bio, Life, Career and Death
Joseph James Wolf (December 17, 1964 – September 26, 2024) was a remarkable American professional basketball player and coach whose impact on the sport spanned over three decades. Known for his formidable presence on the court, Wolf played eleven seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for seven different teams. He was a standout player for the North Carolina Tar Heels in college basketball, earning accolades such as first-team All-ACC in 1987. Before his collegiate success, Wolf established himself as one of Wisconsin’s most celebrated high school players.
Early Life
Born and raised in Kohler, Wisconsin, Wolf’s early passion for basketball was evident as he led Kohler High School to three state championships. His dominance during his high school career earned him recognition that would last a lifetime. In February 2005, a vote conducted by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel selected him as Wisconsin’s all-time greatest high school basketball player, a testament to his skill and achievements during his four years at Kohler High School.
Wolf continued to shine as he transitioned to college basketball at the University of North Carolina. Under the guidance of legendary coach Dean Smith, he reached the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament all four years. His defensive prowess earned him the Carmichael-Cobb Award as UNC’s outstanding defensive player, and he also claimed the Jimmie Dempsey Award as the team’s overall statistical leader in his senior year. His performance in 1987 secured him spots on both the ACC First Team and the ACC All-Tournament Team.
Joe Wolf Professional Career
Wolf’s professional journey began when he was selected as the 13th overall pick in the 1987 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Clippers. Throughout his 11-year career in the NBA, he showcased his skills across seven teams, averaging 4.2 points and 3.3 rebounds per game. Despite not being a superstar, his versatility and dedication made him a valuable player in various roles.
GREENSBORO, NC- OCTOBER 28: Joe Wolf of the Greensboro Swarm poses for a headshot during NBA G League media day at Hayes-Taylor Memorial YMCA in Greensboro, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Kent Smith/NBAE via Getty Images)
Joe Wolf Post-Playing Career
After hanging up his sneakers, Wolf transitioned into coaching, where he continued to share his passion for the game. He served as head coach for the Idaho Stampede in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) and the Colorado 14ers in the NBA Development League. His coaching acumen caught the attention of the Milwaukee Bucks, where he worked as an assistant coach under Scott Skiles.
In the 2014–15 season, Wolf joined the Brooklyn Nets as an assistant to head coach Lionel Hollins. His first season with the Nets was highlighted by a playoff appearance, showcasing his ability to contribute to team success from the sidelines. After a stint at UNC Wilmington, he took the reins as head coach of the Greensboro Swarm, the G League affiliate of the Charlotte Hornets. However, on June 30, 2020, the Swarm opted not to extend his contract.
In a return to his roots, Wolf was hired as an assistant coach by the Wisconsin Herd of the NBA G League on October 5, 2023, bringing his wealth of experience back to his home state.
Death
Joseph James Wolf passed away on September 26, 2024, at the age of 59. His legacy as a player and coach will forever be etched in the history of basketball, particularly in Wisconsin, where he is celebrated as one of the all-time greats.
Wolf’s journey from a high school sensation to an NBA player and coach is a story of dedication, talent, and love for the game. His contributions to basketball, both on and off the court, will continue to inspire future generations of athletes.
Q: When was Joe Wolf born?
A: Joe Wolf was born on December 17, 1964.
Q: Where was Joe Wolf born?
A: He was born in Kohler, Ozaukee County, Wisconsin, USA.
Q: When did Joe Wolf pass away?
A: Joe Wolf passed away on September 26, 2024.
Q: What was Joe Wolf’s height and weight?
A: He was 6 feet 11 inches tall and weighed 230 pounds.
Q: What high school did Joe Wolf attend?
A: Joe Wolf attended Kohler High School in Kohler, Wisconsin.
Q: Which college did Joe Wolf play for?
A: He played college basketball at the University of North Carolina.
Q: When was Joe Wolf drafted into the NBA?
A: He was drafted in 1987, as the 13th overall pick.
Q: Which teams did Joe Wolf play for in the NBA?
A: Wolf played for the Los Angeles Clippers, Denver Nuggets, Boston Celtics, Portland Trail Blazers, León, Charlotte Hornets, Orlando Magic, and Milwaukee Bucks.
Q: What was Joe Wolf’s coaching career?
A: After playing, he coached various teams, including the Wisconsin Herd and several assistant coaching roles.
Q: What are some of Joe Wolf’s career highlights?
A: He was a first-team All-ACC selection in 1987 and a first-team Parade All-American in 1983.
