College football loses a true pioneer as legendary Hawaii coach June Jones passes away at age 73 after battling health issues.
Legendary Hawai'i football coach June Jones, renowned as an early promoter of the run and shoot offense, has died at the age of 73, according to information published by bleache.
The university announced his passing by crediting him as a visionary leader, coach, and mentor who elevated the football program to unprecedented heights during his tenure.
Former colleagues and players have shared heartfelt tributes highlighting his profound impact on the sport, noting his innovative passing schemes that forever changed modern football strategy.
Revolutionizing the Passing Game
Jones entered hospice care earlier this month after doctors discovered a tumor while treating him for back pain, according to statements shared by former Kentucky coach Hal Mumme with The Athletic.
During his time coaching in the USFL and NFL during the 1980s, very few teams utilized the passing attack to the extent that Jones did, establishing him as a true offensive pioneer.
The Atlanta Falcons, where Jones both played and coached, honored him as a visionary in the passing game, remembering his lasting contributions to the organization.
Historic Turnaround at Hawai'i
Born in Portland, Oregon, Jones played college football for Oregon, Hawai'i, and Portland State before launching his coaching career as a graduate assistant in 1983.
After multiple coaching stints in the NFL, including leading the Falcons and Chargers, Jones returned to the NCAA in 1999 to take over as head coach at Hawai'i.
He orchestrated the greatest single-season turnaround in NCAA history by taking a winless 1998 team to a 9-4 record in 1999, capped by a bowl game victory over Oregon State.
Unforgettable Undefeated Season
Under the leadership of quarterbacks like Timmy Chang and Colt Brennan, Jones compiled a 76-41 record across nine seasons with the Hawai'i Rainbow Warriors.
His final season with the program in 2007 resulted in a perfect 12-0 record and a prestigious invitation to the Sugar Bowl before his departure.
Jones later coached SMU, leading them to bowl contention for the first time in 25 years, and finished his four-decade career with stints in the CFL, XFL, and The Spring League.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was June Jones?
June Jones was a legendary college football and professional coach best known for pioneering the run and shoot offense and leading the University of Hawai'i to unprecedented success.
What teams did June Jones coach?
Jones coached numerous teams throughout his four-decade career, including the Atlanta Falcons, San Diego Chargers, Hawai'i, SMU, and various teams in the CFL and XFL.
What was June Jones' coaching record at Hawai'i?
During his nine seasons as head coach at Hawai'i, June Jones compiled a 76-41 record, highlighted by a historic 12-0 undefeated season and a Sugar Bowl appearance in 2007.
