Contents
Introduction
Armen Gilliam, a name that resonates with basketball fans around the world, was an American professional basketball player who played 13 years in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1987 to 2000. He also played one season for the Pittsburgh Xplosion of the American Basketball Association. Gilliam returned to the court after retirement as the head basketball coach for the (NCAA) Division III Penn State Altoona Lions from 2002 to 2005.
Armen Gilliam’s Impressive Career
Gilliam began his college basketball career in 1982–83 at Independence Junior College in Independence, Kansas. That year, Gilliam was a standout player on the basketball team that reached the Junior College Finals and finished sixth in the nation. Gilliam continued his college basketball career with UNLV. Gilliam played for UNLV from 1984 to 1987 and was an integral part of a team that was 93–11 in the three years he played for the Rebels. The UNLV team was ranked number one in the country for most of the three years Gilliam competed and the team made it to the NCAA tournament every year during his stay. In 1987, the team reached the Final Four and Gilliam was named to the NCAA Final Four all-tournament team. Gilliam scored 998 points in his senior year, which remains a school record for the most points scored in a season by a UNLV player.
The Tragic End: Armen Gilliam Cause of Death
Armen Gilliam’s life was tragically cut short on July 5, 2011. He was playing in a pickup basketball game at the LA Fitness gym in the Pittsburgh suburb of Bridgeville when he collapsed on the court. He was rushed to St. Clair Hospital in nearby Mt. Lebanon, where he was pronounced dead. The cause of death was reported as a myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack.
Conclusion: Remembering Armen Gilliam
Armen Gilliam’s sudden death was a shock to the basketball community. His contributions to the sport, both as a player and a coach, were significant and he is remembered as a dedicated and passionate individual. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of basketball players. His life and career serve as a reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of pursuing one’s passion with dedication and fervor. Armen Gilliam’s cause of death was tragic, but his life and legacy continue to shine brightly in the world of basketball.