Hall Of Fame Coach John Thompson Jr. Has Died At 78

While we were still reeling from the shock of losing actor Chadwick Boseman, we woke up to the news Monday morning of the passing of a legend who some have called "the real black panther" for what he's done in his life.

According to WJLA, former Georgetown coach John Thompson Jr. has passed away at the age of 78. Thompson's cause of death has not been revealed.

"Big John", as he was affectionately known, was a two-time NBA Champion with the Boston Celtics before he began his 27-year stint at Georgetown. He would take over an unknown program and turn them into a national power, leading the Hoyas to the Final Four 3 times. In the process, he became the first Black coach to win an NCAA National Championship in 1984.

He's also referred to by many as a "father figure", especially to the athletes who played for him. They include Hall of Famers Patrick Ewing, Dikembe Mutumbo, Alonzo Mourning, and Allen Iverson.

Thompson was inducted into the Basketball Hall Of Fame in 1999, and his autobiography was set to be released in January.