Amazing coach. Amazing pack-pulled autograph. Some cards just mean more. “Don’t give up. Don’t ever give up.” - Jimmy V

Jim Valvano — affectionately known as “Jimmy V” — was a charismatic college basketball coach, broadcaster, and advocate for cancer research. Here are his most important career highlights:

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Coaching Career Highlights

• 1983 NCAA Championship:

  • Led NC State to a legendary national title, defeating heavily favored Houston (Phi Slama Jama with Hakeem Olajuwon & Clyde Drexler).

  • Final play: Lorenzo Charles’ last-second dunk off an airball sealed the 54–52 win — one of the greatest upsets in NCAA history.

• NC State (1980–1990):

  • Record: 209–114 overall.

  • ACC Tournament Titles: 1983 and 1987.

  • Seven NCAA Tournament appearances.

  • Known for fiery motivation and emotional locker room speeches.