Getty

George Raveling -- a beloved college basketball coach and Nike executive who played a pivotal role in signing Michael Jordan to the brand -- has passed away. He was 88.

His family released a statement on Tuesday via social media ... saying Raveling was surrounded by family when he transitioned peacefully following a courageous battle with cancer. Getty

"There are no words to fully capture what George meant to his family, friends, colleagues, former players, and assistants -- and to the world," his family said.

"He will be profoundly missed, yet his aura, energy, divine presence, and timeless wisdom live on in all those he touched and transformed."

Raveling played college basketball for Villanova from 1957 to 1960 before becoming their assistant head coach in 1963.

He we

See Full Page