Standing at six feet and 10 inches, Lovellete was considered one of the first giants of the sport, best known for a one-handed set shot that extended his shooting range.

He became the first basketball player in history to play in a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) championship team, an Olympic gold medal winning team, and a National Basketball Association (NBA) championship squad. 

Only six other players have since completed this treble.

He first led Kansas to the 1952 National Championship before claiming Olympic gold that same year in the Finnish capital.

The US team beat the Soviet Union 36-25 in the final after a semi-final victory over Argentina.

A four-time NBA All-Star, he then helped Minneapolis win the title in his first season in 1954 and was on Boston's championship teams in 1963 and 1964 in his final two seasons in the league.

After his retirement, he undertook jobs as Sheriff of Vigo County along with other farming and business activities.

"Clyde's passing is a big loss for anyone who has ever supported Kansas Athletics," said Kansas coach Bill Self.

"He was a great player, a national champion and Olympic gold medalist.

"He was a beloved team-mate and a great ambassador for his alma mater.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family."

Lovellette was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 1988 and the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012.

He died at his home in North Manchester in Indiana.