What Lute Olson means to us

Legendary Arizona Wildcats basketball coach Lute Olson, who put the program on the map, died on Thursday at the age of 85.

Our staff convened to share our thoughts on his passing and the impact he had on our lives, which extends far beyond basketball.

We strongly encourage you to share your stories in the comment section below. Check out Ezra’s story if you haven’t already.

Ryan Kelapire: I’m not exaggerating when I say that I wouldn’t be where I am without Lute Olson. He’s the reason I’m a third generation Arizona grad.

Growing up in the late 1990s and early 2000s, my first sports memories were watching Arizona basketball games with my parents and grandparents, even though I lived in…