The Howard Pulley Panthers were sadden to learn the passing of Minnesota basketball icon Phil "Flip" Saunders on Sunday at the young age of 60. Flip as always fought a courageous battle against Hodgkins lymphoma, a cancer of the immune system in which he was diagnosed with in June.

Flip was a true pioneer of Minnesota basketball going back to his playing days at the University of Minnesota in the 1970's were he would later coach under Jim Dutcher. Flip took the long road to the NBA and proved at every stop that he was a winner and a true blessing to the game of basketball.

Flip coached the Timberwolves, Pistons and Wizzards in the NBA and led the Wolves in 8 consecutive playoff appearances culminating with a trip to the NBA Western Conference Finals in 2004. Flip did the same in Detroit in 2006 and 2007. 

Flip has always been a positive supporter of Howard Pulley Basketball through the years as he was often spotted at the Howard Pulley Pro-Am many times and working with the state's young talent. This past June Flip made a trade to draft Tyus Jones from Apple Valley and Duke with the 24th pick.

Basketball and the state of Minnesota has lost an all-time great way before his time. Flip is survived by his wife and four children, including son Ryan, who is a Wolves assistant coach.

On behalf of the entire Howard Pulley organization we pass along our condolences to the entire Saunders family and friends. You will be missed.