Stan Van Gundy's weight loss journey is more than just a story of shedding pounds; it's a testament to resilience, healthy habits, and honoring a loved one. In less than six months, the former NBA coach and current television analyst transformed his health, losing 50 pounds and finding renewed vitality. This article explores the factors that contributed to Van Gundy's weight loss, his methods, and the lessons we can all learn from his experience.
The Turning Point: Grief and a Wake-Up Call
The unexpected passing of his wife, Kim, in August 2023 marked a major turning point in Stan Van Gundy's life. Kim Van Gundy, his wife of 35 years, died by suicide at the age of 61. Van Gundy openly discussed the devastating impact of her death, admitting that he struggled to cope with the loss. Grief physically anchored itself in his body. He wasn’t sleeping. He wasn’t eating well. He was 65 years old and carrying 240 pounds on a 5’8” frame. At one point, he was so low he didn’t think he’d make it to 66.
Beyond the emotional toll, Van Gundy's health was also suffering. He tipped 270 at one point and his doctor looked at him and said, “Stan, this is more than grief weight." Sleepless nights turned into exhausting days. High blood pressure and elevated cholesterol served as a wake-up call, prompting him to take action.
The Journey: Simple Changes, Powerful Results
Stan Van Gundy's weight loss wasn’t fueled by celebrity-endorsed pills or surgical shortcuts. Instead, he embraced a straightforward approach centered on sustainable lifestyle changes and mental resilience. On September 2, 2024, he embarked on a journey that prioritized walking, mindful eating, and improved sleep.
Walking: A Step in the Right Direction
“I started walking,” he said. “That’s it. I’d put on a podcast, or just nothing at all, and walk. Daily walks: “I started with 15 minutes. He gradually increased his walking time. This simple yet effective exercise became a cornerstone of his weight loss plan.
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Mindful Eating: Cutting the Crap
Van Gundy didn't follow any fad diets or endorse magic teas. He focused on mindful eating, paying attention to his body's hunger cues and making conscious food choices. “I just cut the crap,” he laughs. “Fewer drive-thru meals. More grilled stuff. Lots of greens. It wasn’t about perfection. He ate when he’s hungry.
Mental Resilience: Honoring Kim's Memory
Losing Kim changed him. Stan explained, grief has a way of physically anchoring itself in the body. Stan Van Gundy’s weight loss journey was deeply intertwined with his emotional healing. He sought therapy to navigate his grief and honor his wife's memory. “Losing Kim shattered me,” he says. “She was my balance,” he said, voice cracking. He channeled his grief into positive action, using his health journey as a tribute to Kim.
The Results: More Than Just Weight Loss
Fast forward to spring 2025: Stan Van Gundy has lost 35 pounds. By early 2025, Van Gundy had dropped 50 pounds, showcasing the effectiveness of his consistent efforts. What started as a step toward better health has turned into a tribute of sorts. The benefits extended beyond the scale. He felt clear.
Stan Van Gundy looks good! For longtime fans, the gruff voice and basketball wisdom remain untouched. He’s back in the spotlight - this time as a commentator for TNT and now Amazon Prime Video’s new NBA broadcast team.
Lessons Learned: Practical Tips for Your Own Journey
Stan Van Gundy's weight loss story offers valuable lessons for anyone seeking to improve their health and well-being. Here are some key takeaways:
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- Consistency is Key: Van Gundy's success stemmed from his commitment to daily walks and mindful eating, even when he didn't feel like it.
- Simple Changes Make a Difference: He didn't resort to extreme diets or intense workouts. Instead, he focused on sustainable habits that fit into his lifestyle.
- Mental Health Matters: Addressing emotional challenges and seeking support can significantly impact your ability to achieve your health goals.
- Find Your Motivation: Whether it's honoring a loved one or improving your overall well-being, having a strong "why" can help you stay on track.
Stan Van Gundy: Beyond the Weight Loss
Stanley Alan Van Gundy (born August 26, 1959) is an American former basketball coach who is a television commentator for College Basketball on CBS for CBS Sports and NBA on Prime for Sports on Amazon Prime Video. Prior to his weight loss journey, Van Gundy had a long and successful career in the NBA.
Coaching Career
Van Gundy began his coaching career as an assistant coach at the University of Vermont, 1981-83, and was head coach at Castleton State College in Vermont for three seasons from 1983 to 1986. He then served as an assistant coach at Canisius College in 1987 and Fordham University in 1988, before becoming head coach at the University of Lowell.
In 1995, Van Gundy joined the Miami Heat as an assistant coach under Pat Riley. He was named head coach in 2003, leading the team to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2005. He later coached the Orlando Magic, guiding them to the 2009 NBA Finals. Van Gundy also served as the head coach and president of basketball operations for the Detroit Pistons from 2014 to 2018, and most recently as the head coach for the New Orleans Pelicans.
Broadcasting Career
After leaving the Pelicans, Van Gundy returned to broadcasting, joining TNT as an analyst for NBA games. He has also called NCAA March Madness games for TNT and CBS. Following TNT's loss of NBA rights, Van Gundy joined Prime Video as a game analyst.
Overcoming Grief: A Personal Reflection
Van Gundy's journey is a powerful reminder that even in the face of profound loss, it is possible to find strength and resilience. He openly shared his struggles with grief and the importance of seeking help.
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"She took her own life, Dan," Van Gundy said. "I can't imagine that I'll ever get over that. … It was devastating." Van Gundy discussed at length the woman he began a relationship with when he was 24 and the life they had built in more than three decades of marriage.
"My entire adult life, I trace everything -- job changes, kids, everything -- I was with her, and she was by my side. I never, ever envisioned that I was going to live any day in my life without Kim," said Van Gundy, who added his wife had been diagnosed with a mental illness.
"I knew she was going through a tough time, but I still never envisioned that happening. Even now, it's been eight months, and I struggle to come to grips with the fact that I'm never going to see her again. I'm trying hard to stay connected. … My house is full of pictures of Kim. There's a montage of pictures above my bed that my kids did for me of Kim. I'm trying hard to remember her voice, to remember her smile, all of those things. But more than anything, live her values, because her values were better than mine."
He is in therapy but that life is different without Kim.