Jerry Tarkanian Biography: Age, Net Worth, Basketball Team, Siblings, Awards, Spouse, Parents, Salary

Jerry Tarkanian was a legendary American basketball coach, most famous for his time at UNLV, where he led the Runnin’ Rebels to a national championship in 1990 and four Final Four appearances.

Known for his fast-paced offence and full-court pressure, Tarkanian transformed college basketball. He won over 900 games throughout his career, earning a place in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013.

Tarkanian’s career also featured a remarkable consistency, with over 700 victories and only two seasons with fewer than 20 wins, never having a losing record. His influence extended beyond the court, shaping player expression and team dynamics.

Profile

• Full Name: Jerry Esther Tarkanian
• Stage Name: Jerry Tarkanian
• Born: August 8, 1930
• Death date: February 11, 2015
• Age: 84 years old
• Birthplace: Euclid, Ohio, U.S.
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: American basketball coach
• Height: Unknown
• Parent: Haighouhie Tarkanian ,George Tarkanian
• Siblings: Jodie Tarkanian, Pamela Tarkanian, George Tarkanian
• Spouse: Lois Tarkanian (m. 1966–2015)
• Children: Danny Tarkanian, Pamela Tarkanian, George Tarkanian ,Jodie Tarkanian
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $2.5 million

Early Life And Education

Jerry Esther Tarkanian was born on August 8, 1930, in Euclid, Ohio, United States, to Haighouhie and George Tarkanian.

He was the third of four children, with two sisters, Jodie and Pamela, and a brother named George.

Tarkanian attended Pasadena City College before transferring to Fresno State University, where he played basketball and graduated in 1955.

After completing his undergraduate degree, Tarkanian earned a master’s degree in educational management from the University of Redlands in 1956. He was of Armenian descent, although his religious beliefs were not publicly shared.

Career

Jerry Tarkanian began his coaching career at the high school level in California, first at San Joaquin Memorial High School in Fresno and later at Antelope Valley High School and Redlands High School.

He then moved to Riverside City College in 1961, where he built a dominant program that won three straight California junior college championships. Tarkanian continued his success at Pasadena City College, leading the team to another state championship.

1968, Tarkanian moved to Long Beach State, marking his first position in Division I basketball. He quickly became known for his innovative approach, including recruiting junior college players and starting a predominantly black lineup, defying the unwritten racial norms of the time. His five-year tenure at Long Beach resulted in a 122–20 record and helped him gain national recognition.

Tarkanian’s next move was to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) in 1973, where he turned the underperforming program into a national powerhouse.

Under his leadership, the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels flourished, with Tarkanian’s fast-paced style and focus on player freedom becoming hallmarks of his coaching philosophy. His charisma and colourful personality earned him the nickname “Tark the Shark.”

Before his success at UNLV, the program had little history; locals even referred to it as “Tumbleweed Tech.” Tarkanian not only transformed the team into a respected contender but also coined the nickname “Runnin’ Rebels” for the squad, which became iconic.

His influence on the program and his ability to build a competitive team from the ground up remains a significant part of UNLV’s legacy.

Throughout his career, Tarkanian battled with the NCAA, notably after they placed UNLV on probation for alleged violations in 1977, even though the infractions occurred before his arrival.

The NCAA’s investigation led to Tarkanian’s suspension for two years, a decision he contested in court, citing violations of his due process rights. This ongoing conflict with the NCAA was a defining aspect of his career.

In addition to his coaching, Tarkanian made brief appearances in films such as The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh (1979), Honeymoon in Vegas (1992), and Blue Chips (1994).

His legacy in college basketball is cemented by his over 900 career wins and induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013.

Social Media

Jerry Tarkanian does not have any active social media accounts.

Personal Life

Jerry Tarkanian was married to Lois Tarkanian, a prominent Las Vegas city councilwoman.

The couple shared a strong partnership for over 60 years and had four children: Danny, Pamela, George, and Jodie Tarkanian. Their son, Danny, played college basketball and became involved in Nevada politics.

Jerry Tarkanian passed away on February 11, 2015, at the age of 84, due to several health issues. After his death, Lois continued her work in public service until she passed away in November 2024.

Net Worth

At the time of his death in 2015, Jerry Tarkanian had an estimated net worth of around $2.5 million.

His wealth stemmed from his successful coaching career, including leading UNLV to an NCAA championship in 1990.

Additionally, he received a $2.5 million settlement from the NCAA in 1998 after filing harassment claims, which further contributed to his financial legacy.