Who Is Hank Gathers? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on February 11, 1967, Hank Gathers was a talented American basketball player known for his explosive style of play. Gathers played college basketball at Loyola Marymount University, where he captured the hearts of many fans with his exceptional performance. He passed away at a young age in 1990, but his legacy continues to influence aspiring athletes and basketball enthusiasts around the world. Hank Gathers left an indelible mark on the game, remembered not only for his prowess on the court but also for his vibrant personality.
| Occupation | Basketball Players |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 11, 1967 |
| Age | 23 Years |
| Birth Place | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Aquarius |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 4 March, 1990 |
| Died Place | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
Popularity
Hank Gathers's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Hank Gathers stood at an impressive height of 6 feet 7 inches (2.01 meters), a significant advantage that complemented his dynamic playing style. During his playing days, he weighed around 200 lbs (90 kg), giving him the strength and agility needed for his position as a forward. His athletic build was pivotal in his ability to navigate through defenses effectively, showcasing his skills as both a scorer and playmaker.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Hank Gathers had a close-knit family support system throughout his life. He was particularly close to his mother, who played a vital role in his development both as a player and as a person. Unfortunately, details about Gathers' dating life and relationships are not widely documented. However, it is known that he maintained strong friendships with teammates and coaches. Given his untimely passing, discussions about a girlfriend, wife, or immediate family members are scarce and largely center around his legacy rather than personal relationships.
Gathers' death reemerged in national news wires during the 2016 NBA Playoffs when Kimble, interviewed for the celebrity gossip website TMZ.com, urged that Miami Heat star Chris Bosh retire for health reasons.
Bosh has been suffering from blood clotting issues that forced him to miss the last several months of both the 2014–15 and 2015–16 seasons, as well as the entirety of the 2016–17 season. While Bosh felt that he was healthy enough to continue playing, Kimble disagreed: "There are so many other things he could do with his life.
Hank Gathers had the same thing, Hank could have been a comedian, an actor or did speaking engagements. It's not worth the risk. I would just say absolutely not, don't do it. If Hank had the ability to do it again he wouldn't have paid the ultimate price ...
I am sure [Bosh] has children and they are going to need their father around as much as possible."
Net Worth and Salary
Though Hank Gathers had a promising career, his life was tragically cut short. At the time of his death in 1990, Gathers had not amassed a significant net worth compared to some contemporary stars. However, his potential earnings, combined with endorsements that many athletes receive, suggest that had he prolonged his basketball career, he could have achieved substantial financial success. As of 2025, Gathers’ influence in basketball circles continues, with his legacy revered and remembered, often leading to discussions about his impact on the sport.
Career, Business and Investments
Gathers played the majority of his collegiate basketball career at Loyola Marymount University, where he made headlines for his scoring ability and rebounding. His college career was elevated as he helped lead his team to notable success, including an inspiring run in the NCAA tournament. After his college tenure, Gathers was drafted into the NBA, where he showed great promise. Tragically, his career was cut short by his passing. While there were no known business ventures or investments tied to his name after his death, his impact continues to inspire those in sports, highlighting the importance of health and well-being among athletes.
Gathers began his college career with the USC Trojans, but transferred with teammate Bo Kimble to Loyola Marymount after his freshman year. Playing under Lions coach Paul Westhead and his fast-paced system, Gathers was a three-time first-team All-WCC selection.
In his first season with the Lions, he earned the first of two consecutive most valuable player (MVP) honors in the WCC tournament. As a junior, he was named the WCC Player of the Year and began receiving All-American recognition.
Early in his senior year in 1989–90, Gathers was diagnosed with an abnormal heartbeat after he collapsed during a game. He was placed on medication and returned a few weeks later, but he initially struggled, which he attributed to his medication. The dosage was gradually decreased, and his play recovered.
Gathers died at age 23 after collapsing for the second time that season during the semifinals of the 1990 WCC tournament.
Social Network
Hank Gathers may not have had a social media presence, as platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook became popular after his passing. However, his legacy lives on through various basketball communities and tributes online. Many fans and players share memories and discussions about his influence in the game on social networks today.
Loyola Marymount was placed in the West Regional as the No. 11 seed in that season's NCAA tournament. Before the tournament, the right-handed Kimble vowed to shoot his first free throw of each game left-handed, in memory of Gathers. Though naturally right-handed, Gathers was a poor free-throw shooter and had switched to shooting them left-handed.
The Lions advanced to the Elite Eight, including a victory over defending national champion Michigan, before falling to the eventual champions, UNLV. Kimble finished a perfect 3-for-3 on his left-handed free throws during the tournament.
Both LMU's Cinderella story without Gathers and Kimble's left-handed tributes to him became part of NCAA tournament lore.
Education
Hank Gathers attended Loyola Marymount University, where he excelled both academically and athletically. His time at the institution was marked by an incredible work ethic and a passion for the game. He graduated with a degree in business administration, showcasing his intellect on and off the court. Gathers' education played a significant role in shaping his character, emphasizing the importance of persistence and dedication, qualities that he demonstrated throughout his basketball career.
In remembering Hank Gathers, we honor an athlete whose life and legacy transcended the basketball court. His story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring impact one can have on others—an inspiration for generations to come.
Eric Wilson "Hank" Gathers Jr. (February 11, 1967 – March 4, 1990) was an American college basketball player for the Loyola Marymount Lions in the West Coast Conference (WCC). As a junior in 1989, he became the second player in NCAA Division I history to lead the nation in scoring and rebounding in the same season.
Gathers was a consensus second-team All-American as a senior in 1990. His No. 44 was retired by the Lions, who also placed a statue of him in his honor outside their home arena Gersten Pavilion.
