Who Was Jimmy Valvano?
Jimmy Valvano was an Italian-American who was best known for playing point-guard at Rutgers University, then becoming a coach for John Hopkins University. Valvano then transferred to Iona, taking the team to the NCAA tournament in 1979. His prospective career in sports inspired many students, coaches, and fans alike. Valvano started the V Foundation for Cancer Research after finding himself battling metastatic adenocarcinoma. The foundation is still fighting for friends and families to fund the research to end cancer once and for all.
Speech Highlights
Valvano’s speech left many with a multitude of memorable quotes. He is best known for the following;
“But think about it. If you laugh, you think and you cry, that’s a full day. That’s a heckuva day.”
“The ability to be able to work hard for your dreams to come true, to become a reality.”
He said the following about the V Foundation for Cancer Research; “It may not save my life. It may save my children’s lives. It may save someone you love.”
The speech given by Valvano is one that will be remembered forever.
Watch Jimmy Valvano's Speech HERE
Sources
Jimmy V’s ESPYS Speech, Annotated [ESPN]
“Don’t Give Up” [James Clear]
Jim Valvano: Career retrospective [North Carolina State Wolfpack News]
