Getty Images.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a statement on the passing of basketball coaching legend Bobby Knight.
Taking to Truth Social last night, Trump praised Knight for being “tough as nails, but a big heart.” He thanked the Indiana Hoosiers legend for endorsing him and offered his thoughts and prayers to Knight’s family.
“The World just lost an incredible person, the Great Bobby Knight. He was not just an award-winning and record-breaking Coach, he was loyal to his Players, to his State, and to our Country—Tough as nails, but a big heart. When he Endorsed me, it was like the whole Great World of Indiana opened up happy and wide. Our hearts and prayers are with his wonderful wife Karen and Sons, Tim and Pat—Their Father was a great man!” he wrote, via TrumpDailyPosts on X.
Sports fans took to the comments to offer their condolences both to Knight and his family, and to Trump for losing a friend:
If you were to ask any of Bobby Knights players, they all would say he was tough, but he loved us. Bobby cared more for his players than any other coach I have ever known. He had a great heart and yes, he had a temper, but all the love in his heart covered that!
— Dan (@Danthecandyman) November 2, 2023
Bobby Knight’s impact reached far beyond the basketball court. His legacy will forever be remembered. My condolences to his family. 🏀🙏 #BobbyKnight #Legend
— World News (@worlus_news) November 2, 2023
I’m sorry for your loss. Bobby Knight was a good man.
— Misttina Brownfield (@MisttinaBr24043) November 2, 2023
As an Indiana girl, Bobby Knight will live forever in our hearts.
— Unruly Julie (@UnrulyJulie15) November 2, 2023
Bobby Knight went 662-239 in 39 seasons as head coach at Indiana, winning three national titles, 11 Big Ten regular season titles and never suffering a losing season there.
Overall he went 902-371 with his tenures at Army, Indiana and Texas Tech.
Our hearts go out to Knight’s family and loved ones.