TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – The University of South Florida’s men’s basketball team takes the court for the first time since the death of head coach Amir Abdur-Rahim, on Wednesday.

The 43-year-old passed away last week due to complications with a medical procedure.

Abdur-Rahim’s impact on the Bulls is long-lasting. Last year, he led the team to a conference championship and the second round of the NIT.

Associate coach Ben Fletcher is now the acting interim head coach. Fletcher has a long history with Abdur-Rahim.

Fletcher was part of Abdur-Rahim’s coaching staff at Kennesaw State and the two played against each other in college.

“I was looking back through some of our text messages and, excuse me, the one thing he would always tell me, even at Kennesaw, he would always say ‘You’re ready, God is preparing you for this’ and ‘Soon you’re going to get your opportunity’,” Fletcher said.

Counselors are helping coaches and players cope with the loss.

“Saturday was our first time practicing and in typical Amir fashion, those guys were as locked in as I’ve ever seen. I know that was their way of honoring him,” Fletcher said.

The Bulls will face off against Edward Waters College for an exhibition game at the Yuengling Center, on Wednesday. A celebration of life honoring Abdur-Rahim is planned for Saturday at the Yuengling Center.