David White's Legacy: Florida State Basketball's Turnaround Era

0:00On March 10, Florida's day basketball lost a key figure from its turnaround era, with the passing of David White. The 6-foot-5 forward, part of the 1987 recruiting class that ranked fourth nationally, died on March 8 in his hometown of St. Petersburg, Florida after a stroke. He was 56 years old. That class under Coach Pat Kennedy helped lift the Seminole's back to national notice after a coaching change. That came in as a McDonald's All-American and a top 30 prospect, fresh off leading his high school team to a state title with standout averages. In points, rebounds and assists, teammates and coaches remember him for his loyalty, hard work, and humor that kept the locker room light. Former point guard Charlie Ward called him a big influence, while current coach Luke Lux noted his role in flipping the program's fortunes, recruiter David Zimroff said landing white put Florida state on the map. For four seasons from 1987 to 91, White played in 113 games with 19 starts, scoring 209 points.

1:04He contributed to three NCAA tournament teams and two conference championships, then walked on to the football squad. White's legacy stretches beyond stats, as a community pillar in the Tevabe area and a devotor family man whose early commitments sparked bigger. Things were Seminole hoops.