Former college basketball star Mike Babul has died, UMass announced Tuesday. He was 47 years old.
The school announced the news just minutes ago… In a heartfelt statement, the Minutemen fan base said they were mourning the loss of an iconic member of the community.
“Babul was a true Massachusetts basketball legend on the court, a positive force in his community and in many areas as a coach,” the school said.
Babul, a Massachusetts native, gained recognition as a standout high school basketball player…particularly during his senior year at North Attleboro, where he averaged 20.1 points and 8.4 rebounds per game.
He received All-Conference, Gatorade Player of the Year and Massachusetts High School Coaches Association Player of the Year honors.
Babul completed his collegiate career at UMass…and was named to the Atlantic 10 All-Defensive Team in three consecutive seasons (1997-2000).
Babul pursued a coaching career after his playing days, starting at Seekonk High School in 2002.
He then served as an assistant coach for several teams, including the Memphis Tigers John Calipari and the Long Island Nets of the G-League.
At the time of his death, Babul was the head coach of Thayer Academy and the owner of Hoop Work, which specialized in youth basketball camps. He was also a coach.
His twin brother, Jonworks for the Atlanta Hawks as vice president of basketball development.
Babul leaves behind his fiancée, Mary.
REST IN PEACE