A former basketball coach turned legendary analyst has died on Monday. He was 76 years old.
Former college basketball coach Mark Freidinger, who became a longtime in-game analyst for ACC basketball, has died. Wake Forest, where Freidinger served as a longtime game announcer, confirmed his passing.
"I speak for our entire program in mourning the passing of Mark Freidinger. Some of my most cherished memories from my time at Wake Forest were spent with Dinger just hearing his stories and sharing his experiences in this game we all cherish,“ Demon Deacons head coach Steve Forbes said. ”We will miss him greatly.”
Freidinger was an announcer for Wake Forest men's basketball games from 1990 until 2025.
The former coach, who served as an assistant at Kansas and Wake Forest, also served as a scout for the San Antonio Spurs.
“It was an honor to call Mark Freidinger a friend and colleague for four decades,” legendary Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said in a statement. “He was a masterful storyteller who impressed and entertained all of us with his big personality and basketball acumen.
“Dinger’s excellence in scouting played a significant role in the success the Spurs have enjoyed over the years. We wish his family the best as they search for peace during this difficult time.”
Fans are devastated by his passing.
"We, the WF family, have lost a real treasure. Condolences to his family," one wrote.
"Sorry for your loss. Prayers and Thoughts are sent," one fan added.
"The Dinger was a great one. Prayers for his family," another shared.
May he rest in peace.
