What Happened to Cozell McQueen?
Cozell McQueen was an American professional basketball player, widely celebrated for his pivotal role in the NC State Wolfpack's unexpected 1983 NCAA National Championship victory. After a brief NBA career, he played extensively in European and American minor leagues before retiring in 1996. McQueen passed away on August 5, 2026, at the age of 64, following recent health challenges.
Quick Answer
Cozell McQueen, a towering center known for his instrumental contributions to the NC State Wolfpack's 1983 NCAA National Championship team, passed away on August 5, 2026, at 64 years old. His professional career included a short stint with the Detroit Pistons in the NBA, followed by significant time playing in various European leagues and American minor leagues. He was inducted into the NC State Hall of Fame in 2019.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline14 events
Born in Paris, France
Cozell McQueen was born in Paris, France.
Begins College Career at NC State
Cozell McQueen joins the NC State Wolfpack basketball team, playing under coach Jim Valvano.
Wins NCAA National Championship
As a sophomore, McQueen plays a crucial role in NC State's improbable run to the NCAA National Championship, defeating Houston's 'Phi Slama Jama'.
Drafted by Milwaukee Bucks
Cozell McQueen is selected by the Milwaukee Bucks in the fourth round (91st overall pick) of the 1985 NBA Draft.
Waived by Milwaukee Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks renounce their draft rights to Cozell McQueen, making him an unrestricted free agent.
Signs with New York Knicks (briefly)
McQueen signs a contract with the New York Knicks but is released less than two months later without playing a competitive game.
NBA Debut with Detroit Pistons
Cozell McQueen makes his NBA debut, playing for the Detroit Pistons during the 1986-87 season in three games.
Begins European Professional Career
After his brief NBA stint, McQueen moves to Europe, playing for teams like Tours (France) and Paini Napoli (Italy).
Retires from Professional Basketball
Cozell McQueen concludes his professional basketball career after playing in various minor leagues in the United States.
Inducted into NC State Hall of Fame
Cozell McQueen is inducted into the NC State Hall of Fame as part of the 1983 National Championship team.
Recovers from Brain Tumor
McQueen successfully battles and recovers from a brain tumor.
Participates in Duke Brain Tumor Clinic Fundraiser
As a brain cancer survivor, McQueen participates in the 'Angels Among Us' run/walk event for the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Clinic at Duke Cancer Center.
Recovers from Meningitis and Intestinal Obstruction
Cozell McQueen successfully recovers from meningitis and an intestinal obstruction, with his family sharing updates on his health.
Passes Away at 64
Cozell McQueen passes away at the age of 64. NC State announces his death, though the cause is not immediately revealed.
🔍Deep Dive Analysis
Cozell McQueen, born on January 18, 1962, in Paris, France, became a celebrated figure in American college basketball. He rose to national prominence as a key player for the NC State Wolfpack from 1981 to 1985 under coach Jim Valvano. His most iconic achievement came in 1983, when, as a sophomore, he helped lead the Wolfpack to an improbable NCAA National Championship, famously contributing 12 rebounds and 4 points in the upset victory over Houston's 'Phi Slama Jama' team. He also had a memorable moment scaling the backboard in celebration after the win.
Following his stellar college career, McQueen was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in the fourth round of the 1985 NBA Draft. However, he was waived by the Bucks shortly after. He later signed with the New York Knicks in August 1986 but was released before playing a competitive game. McQueen eventually made his NBA debut with the Detroit Pistons in January 1987, playing in three regular-season games during the 1986-87 season, averaging 2.0 points and 2.7 rebounds.
The majority of McQueen's professional career unfolded in Europe and American minor leagues. He played for several teams, including Cacaolat Granollers in Spain, the Wisconsin Flyers in the Continental Basketball Association, Tours in France, Paini Napoli and Philips Milano in Italy, and CAI Zaragoza in Spain, where he led the Italian league in blocks in 1988-89. He concluded his playing career in the American minor leagues in 1996.
In recognition of his collegiate achievements, Cozell McQueen was inducted into the NC State Hall of Fame in 2019, alongside his 1983 National Championship teammates. In the years leading up to his passing, McQueen faced significant health challenges. He successfully battled and recovered from a brain tumor in 2025. More recently, in June 2026, he overcame meningitis and an intestinal obstruction, with his family sharing updates on his recovery and gratitude for prayers.
Tragically, Cozell McQueen passed away on August 5, 2026, at the age of 64. NC State announced his death, though the specific cause was not immediately revealed. His passing marked the fourth member of the beloved 1983 championship team to die, following coach Jim Valvano and players Lorenzo Charles and Quinton Leonard. McQueen's legacy as a national champion and a beloved figure in NC State basketball history remains strong.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Cozell McQueen made different choices?