June Jones, one of the defining figures behind the run and shoot offense and a longtime college football coach, has died at 73.
Jones built a coaching career that stretched across the Atlanta Falcons, Hawaii, SMU and the XFL’s Houston Roughnecks. He became especially known for the explosive Hawaii offense led by Colt Brennan, along with his role as a major voice in the spread of the run and shoot system.
A cause of death has not been officially reported.
News of Jones’ passing circulated through social media accounts tied to the coaching world, including Run & Shoot Certification, the clinic built around his system. The account wrote, “We mourn the passing of the legendary June Jones. June’s greatest legacy wasn’t the records, championships, or the offense,” It added, “It was the people he believed in, the opportunities he gave, and the lives he forever changed.”
Tributes quickly followed online from coaches and those around the game. Coach Dan Casey called him “A pioneer of Offensive Football.” and said, “The Run & Shoot fundamentally changed the way the Pass Game is taught. It gave QB’s & WR’s the freedom to adjust routes and find space.”
Warrior All Access honored Jones as Hawaii’s winningest head coach, writing, “We are saddened to hear the passing of legendary #HawaiiFB Coach June Jones today.
He is UH’s winningest head coach with 76 wins, the master in the Run and Shoot Offense and a great mentor and teacher of the game.
Coach Jones was 73 years old. Rest in Aloha.”
Rich Phillips also shared his memories of Jones’ time at SMU, saying, “Sad to hear about the passing of June Jones today. A pioneer in offensive football.
His days with @SMUFB were awesome as he returned the Mustangs to their first bowl game in 25 years. Always loved talking football with June.”
Our deepest condolences go out to Jones’ family and friends during this incredibly difficult and tragic time.
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