This is not how Homer Drew’s retirement should go.
The former Valparaiso coach, who retired in May after 22 seasons, was recently diagnosed with an undisclosed cancer, as was his wife, Janet. The news was confirmed by Drew’s son Scott to multiple media outlets.
There’s little news about the type of cancer, other than it was diagnosed “early.”
Homer Drew issued a statement through the university saying he “appreciated the thoughts and prayers” being expressed.
News of the cancer broke on Twitter when one of Drew’s former players, Brandon Wood, tweeted twice:
“Just got off the phone with my coach from Valpo Homer Drew who put me in the position to have the opportunity to play here at MSU.”
“Everybody pray for my coach at Valpo Homer Drew and his wife who were both just diagnosed with cancer.”
Drew, who just turned 67, is part of one of the most famous plays in NCAA tournament history and a beloved figure at Valpo. For the sake of something upbeat, how about video of that very play, where Drew sets up a play for his son Bryce to sink No. 4 seed Ole Miss in the 1998 tourney.
Get well, coach.
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