Calhoun made a mark on and off the court

STORRS, Conn. (WTNH) -- Coach Jim Calhoun made his mark on the hard court, as well as off the court.

He is retiring, but will continue as UConn's goodwill ambassador and major fundraiser.

If you're on the second floor of the UConn Health Center, you will see signs pointing you to the Jim and Pat Calhoun Cardiology Center. A legacy built by the family's compassion and commitment.

Jim Calhoun is a basketball legend who stands strong as a pillar of the UConn community.

"His is a walking life lesson in courage and altruism," said Susan Herbst, UConn President.

Over the years, Coach Calhoun has raised millions for the UConn Health Center. In 2004, the Pat and Jim Calhoun Cardiology Center was dedicated.

"We have grown to almost 60 faculty and staff, we offer a full range comprehensive cardiac service and we've won a number of awards," said Dr. Bruce Liang, "and a lot of this is inspiration coming from Coach and his enthusiasm and commitment to excellence."

Dr. Liang heads up the center.

"Jim always tells the story that when he was 15, one day he came home, he found his father just passed away from heart disease which runs in the family, and so he is very supportive of any kind of vascular research that will find new diagnosis, new cures," Dr. Liang said.

Dr. Liang says just as on the basketball court, his passion is real, always asking questions.

"What's going on, what's new in cardiology," said Dr. Liang. "What can we do to help you get there."

The Hall of Famer passes on defining his own legacy, instead choosing to have others speak out.

"I think the legacy is commitment to providing the best quality of medical care for our patients and to carry on cutting edge research, apply the latest technology to the benefit of our patients," said Dr. Liang.

As many know, Jim Calhoun is a cancer survivor. His annual challenge ride and walk benefits UConn's 'Neag' Comprehensive Cancer Center.