May 27, 2007

VILLANOVA, Pa. - Villanova basketball great Howard Porter has died of injuries sustained last week in his adopted hometown of Minneapolis. He was 58.

"The entire Villanova family is saddened by the news of Howard's death," stated Villanova head coach Jay Wright. "Howard provided so many Villanovans with thrills on the basketball court playing for Coach (Jack) Kraft. Since his playing days ended, he has been an outstanding role model for our current players and coaching staff.

"Howard was a kind, gentle, and humble man who loved his family and Villanova. We will all miss him."

Porter is widely recognized as one of the finest players to ever wear a Wildcat uniform. The 6-8 forward came to the Main Line from Sarasota, Fla., and was a central figure in Villanova's march to the 1971 NCAA Final against UCLA at the Houston Astrodome. He averaged 22.8 ppg and 14.8 rpg in 89 career games from 1968-71 and was a three-time All-American. His No. 54 jersey was retired in 1997 and he remains the school's all-time rebound leader with 1,317 caroms.

Funeral arrangements are pending. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in the name of Howard Porter to Villanova's V Club.