John Feinstein, a celebrated sports writer and author of numerous bestselling books, died unexpectedly on Thursday at the age of 69. Feinstein’s brother, Robert, found his body at his home in McLean, Virginia, and reported that he died of natural causes.
Feinstein was a prominent figure in sports journalism, having worked as a full-time reporter for The Washington Post from 1977 to 1991. He was also a regular commentator on ESPN and the Golf Channel, and voted in the AP Top 25 men’s college basketball poll for over 20 years.
Feinstein’s writing career spanned multiple genres, including fiction and nonfiction, and he covered various sports, including golf, tennis, and college basketball. His most notable work, “A Season on the Brink,” a book about college basketball coach Bob Knight, was published in 1986.
Tributes poured in from the sports community, with many praising Feinstein’s passion, expertise, and ability to develop strong relationships with coaches and players. Michigan State coach Tom Izzo described Feinstein as “strong with his opinions” and “very interesting to talk to.”
Feinstein’s legacy extends beyond his writing, as he taught sports journalism at Duke University and Longwood University. His colleagues and students remembered him as a dedicated and respected mentor.
Feinstein is survived by his wife, Christine, their children, Brigid, Jayne, and Danny, and his brother, Robert.
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