It was one of those calls you absolutely dread. Villanova SID Mike Sheridan called the other day, and I figured he was going to ask me about another column for the Basketball Times.

But Mike had called to tell me some sad, sad news. Larry Donald collapsed while going for a walk in Pinehurst, N.C. He died immediately, the result of cardiac arrest.

I was stunned beyond belief.

You can often measure a man by the people with whom he associates.

“

Larry brought so much love to the game of college basketball. I know I will miss him dearly, as will all basketball lovers in America. ”

Larry associated with the who's who of college basketball. That's just one reason he was a special man. His passing is so sad and has left so many stunned.

When you looked at his publication, Basketball Times, he was always associated with superstars. Look at some of the people who wrote for him: Bob Ryan, Dick "Hoops" Weiss, John Feinstein. They are all Hall-of-Fame writers, and they didn't write for Larry with compensation in mind.

People wrote for Larry for one reason: RESPECT. He was a man who had a passion and love for college basketball. Larry had great integrity, and always shared his feelings and opinions. He was as honest as could be.

I will always remember my last conversation with him. It took place Nov. 10 at Madison Square Garden during the Coaches vs. Cancer Classic. Larry was so excited about the competition which took place the night before. We were together courtside, laughing and talking about how he picked Seton Hall as the No. 1 team in America.

I said to him, "Man, are you going out on a limb. I know they are good, but I don't know about THAT good!"

Larry said to me, "Dick, you watch -- wait and see. Tommy Amaker's team will be for real and end up in Minneapolis."

I can't believe he won't be here to see how that pick fares.

He brought so much love to the game of college basketball. I know I will miss him dearly, as will all basketball lovers in America.

Larry, may you rest in peace up in heaven. You were such a vital force in the world of college basketball. God bless.