Joe Wolf, a high school basketball legend from Kohler, Wisconsin, and former NBA player and coach, passed away unexpectedly at 59 from a suspected heart attack. The news was announced on September 26 by the Milwaukee Bucks, where Wolf had served as an assistant coach for their G League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd. Known for his contributions on and off the court, Wolf left an indelible mark on basketball, especially in his home state of Wisconsin.
Wolf’s basketball journey began at Kohler High School, where he led his team to three state championships in 1980, 1982, and 1983. His skills on the court earned him national recognition, and he was named a high school All-American in 1983. “With his size and skills, he was the best I’ve seen,” said Win Parkinson, a longtime coach in Milwaukee, during a 2005 interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
After high school, Wolf went on to play for the University of North Carolina under the legendary coach Dean Smith. During his four-year college career, Wolf played alongside some of the greatest players in basketball history, including Michael Jordan and Kenny Smith. As a senior in 1986-1987, Wolf served as a co-captain for the Tar Heels and was named to the All-Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) team. Over his college career, North Carolina reached the Sweet 16 twice and the Elite Eight twice, boasting an impressive 115-22 record during Wolf’s time on the team.
In 1987, the Los Angeles Clippers selected Wolf as the 13th overall pick in the NBA Draft. He enjoyed an 11-year career in the NBA, playing for seven teams, including stints with the Clippers, Denver Nuggets, Boston Celtics, Orlando Magic, Portland Trail Blazers, and Milwaukee Bucks. His time in Milwaukee brought him back to his home state, where his legendary status only grew.
Following his playing career, Wolf transitioned into coaching, starting at the college level with positions at William & Mary and UNC Wilmington. He also took on head coaching roles in the NBA’s G League, where he coached teams like the Idaho Stampede, Colorado 14ers, and Greensboro Swarm. In 2023, he returned to Wisconsin as an assistant coach for the Wisconsin Herd, where he had previously worked for several years. The organization released a statement mourning his passing, describing him as a “highly respected, adored, and dedicated coach and player across the NBA.”
Wolf’s influence reached far beyond his basketball career. He was recognized for his commitment to coaching and mentoring young athletes. He was consistently enthusiastic about sharing the valuable lessons he gained with Dean Smith and other mentors. In a 2018 interview, Wolf recalled how his training began when he arrived on campus, emphasizing how Smith instilled the right habits in him.
Wolf’s legacy in Wisconsin is unparalleled. In a 2005 poll by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, he was voted the greatest high school basketball player in Wisconsin history. His contributions to the sport were remembered fondly by those who watched him play and those he coached. As one fan recalled, “He had a heck of a following and a heck of a career. I just look at him as one of the most complete players I’ve ever seen.”
Wolf is survived by his family, friends, and the countless players he mentored throughout his career. His contributions to basketball, both as a player and coach, solidify his status as a sports icon.
