Murfreeboro, Tennessee, October 17, 2025
News Summary
Randy Wiel, former UNC Asheville men’s basketball coach, passed away after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 74 years old and is remembered for his significant contributions to college basketball, notably transforming the Bulldogs into a competitive team. Wiel was recognized as the Big South Coach of the Year and played a pivotal role in coaching and connecting basketball programs. His legacy continues through his family and the impact he made on the sport.
Murfreeboro, Tennessee – Randy Wiel, former UNC Asheville men’s basketball coach, passed away on October 14, 2025, after a prolonged eight-year battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 74 years old at the time of his death, marking the end of a notable career characterized by significant achievements in college basketball and beyond.
Wiel was at the helm of the UNC Asheville Bulldogs from 1993 to 1996, a period during which he transformed the team from having a dismal 3-24 record in his first season to achieving an impressive 18-10 record by the 1995-96 season. Under his leadership, the Bulldogs finished third in the Big South Conference, narrowly missing first place by just one game. His success earned him the title of Big South Coach of the Year in 1996, making him the first coach in the history of UNC Asheville basketball to win this honor.
Additionally, during the 1995-96 season, Wiel led the Bulldogs to the semifinals of the Big South Tournament, a feat the team had not accomplished in six years prior to his arrival. When Wiel took over, UNC Asheville was ranked 299 out of 300 Division I schools, illustrating the significant turnaround he oversaw.
Born in Willemstad, Curacao, Randy Wiel had a rich basketball legacy. He was a player for the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he later served as an assistant coach during their 1993 National Championship year. Wiel played a pivotal role in scheduling matchups between the Tar Heels and the Bulldogs, successfully breaking a long-standing refusal to compete against in-state non-ACC schools since 1957.
His efforts brought thousands of fans to home games, including a record attendance of over 7,000 at the Asheville Civic Center, which remains one of the largest crowds in the venue’s history. Before joining UNC Asheville, Wiel was the head coach for the Dutch National Basketball Team and also coached at the junior varsity level for UNC.
After his time with the Bulldogs, Wiel continued his coaching career at Middle Tennessee State University and held positions with various professional basketball teams across Europe, China, and Mexico. His impact on the sport and his dedication to coaching were further complemented by his diverse skill set; he was proficient in six languages and was also a talented musician, often playing the guitar and trumpet.
Wiel is survived by his wife, Connie Wiel, and their children: Udemar Wiel, Gabriella Whiting, and Alexander “Zander” Wiel. He also leaves behind several siblings and a host of nieces and nephews. Randy Wiel is preceded in death by his daughter, Urnice Wiel, and his sister, Janella Wiel.
In honor of his memory, contributions can be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. A visitation with the Wiel family is scheduled for October 18, 2025, at Woodfin Memorial Chapel.
Key Accomplishments of Randy Wiel
- Coached UNC Asheville Bulldogs from 1993 to 1996.
- Improved team record from 3-24 to 18-10 within three seasons.
- First coach to be named Big South Coach of the Year in 1996.
- Led team to semifinals of Big South Tournament for the first time in six years.
Background
Randy Wiel’s early career included notable achievements as a player and coach. He participated in the 1968 Summer Olympics in Track and Field, showcasing his athletic versatility. His journey through coaching began at the junior varsity level, leading to significant appointments, including coaching the Dutch National Basketball Team.
Memorial Information
Family and friends will gather for a visitation with the Wiel family on October 18, 2025, at Woodfin Memorial Chapel. Memorial contributions can be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network to honor Wiel’s legacy and commitment to fighting cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Randy Wiel pass away?
Randy Wiel passed away on October 14, 2025.
What was Randy Wiel’s age at the time of his death?
He was 74 years old at the time of his death.
What achievement did Randy Wiel accomplish during the 1995-96 season?
During the 1995-96 campaign, the Bulldogs finished third in the Big South Conference, just one game out of first place.
Where can memorial contributions be made in Randy Wiel’s memory?
Memorial contributions can be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network in his memory.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Randy Wiel |
| Birthplace | Willemstad, Curacao |
| Coaching Career | UNC Asheville Bulldogs, Middle Tennessee State University, various professional teams |
| Aged At Death | 74 years |
| Notable Achievement | First Big South Coach of the Year from UNC Asheville |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- UNC Asheville News
- WLOS News
- Woodfin Chapel Obituary
- Tennessean Article
- Wikipedia: Basketball Coaching
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
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