Former University of North Dakota Men’s Basketball Coach, Dave Gunther, dead at 86

Former University of North Dakota (UND) men’s basketball coach Dave Gunther has passed away at the age of 86 on March 16, 2024.

Gunther, whose coaching career spanned 18 seasons from 1971 to 1988, left an indelible mark on UND athletics.

UND Athletic Director Bill Chaves fondly remembers Gunther as not just a successful coach, but also a remarkable individual.

Gunther’s tenure saw remarkable achievements, including five North Central Conference titles, eight NCAA Division II tournament appearances, and three Elite Eight finishes.

Inducted into the UND Athletics Letterwinners Hall of Fame in 1987, Gunther’s legacy extends beyond his personal accolades. Under his guidance, five of his teams also earned induction into the hall of fame.

Before coaching, Gunther made a name for himself as a standout basketball player at Iowa from 1956 to 1959, where he achieved significant success on the court.

Following his college career, he served in the U.S. Army before transitioning to professional basketball. Gunther played professionally for three seasons, including a stint with the NBA’s San Francisco Warriors in 1962.

Gunther’s impact reached far beyond the basketball court. Known for his affable personality and easy smile, he left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.

UND men’s basketball head coach Paul Sather fondly remembers Gunther as a special individual whose presence will be deeply missed.