Tim Bankston, a cherished Chicago high school basketball coach and former local standout player, was found shot dead on Wednesday, July 29, inside a residence in the Auburn Gresham neighborhood. He was 60 years old.
Bankston was discovered by a friend around 10 a.m. inside the South Side home. Authorities confirmed he suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the abdomen and was pronounced dead at the scene. The Chicago Police Department is investigating the incident, and no arrests have been made.
According to family members, Bankston, who resided in Gary, Indiana, was visiting a friend's house when the shooting occurred. The friend reportedly returned home to find Bankston deceased.
A Prominent Figure in Chicago Basketball
Bankston was a well-regarded figure in the Chicago basketball community. He played as a starting point guard for Simeon High School, a historically strong program, in the 1980s. Following his high school career, Bankston played collegiate basketball at Bradley University and Loyola University Chicago before dedicating decades to coaching and mentoring young athletes.
Tributes and Legacy
Following the news of his death, relatives and former players shared emotional tributes. His son, Timothy Bankston Jr., stated, "My dad is a part of me. I have his name. I can carry his legacy." Bankston is also survived by his wife and two daughters.
His sister, Karolyn Wright, described the incident as a "cowardly" act and remembered him as "more than just a basketball coach. More than just a basketball legend. A family man." Another sister, Jennifer, called him a "gentle giant," and his great-niece, Kailey-Rose, noted his generosity and willingness to help young people in need.
Former players recalled Bankston's significant impact beyond the court, with many viewing him as a father figure and life mentor. Wayne Montgomery, 35, shared that Bankston guided him through adolescence, emphasizing lessons in "honesty and discipline" and prioritizing academics. "He was so much more than just a coach. A mentor, a friend, a teacher. He touched so many lives," Montgomery said.
Thornton Fractional High School District 215 issued a statement honoring Bankston's legacy, stating, "He was not just beloved; he was a mentor that countless alumni credit for being the overriding influence that made them into the positive, productive members of communities that they are today."