It is with profound sadness that we received the news today that Steve Pound has passed away. A beloved figure in Canadian basketball and a cherished member of the Acadia University community, Steve’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, watched him play, or had the privilege of calling him a friend.
Steve, a 5-foot-9 guard, was not only one of the most dynamic players to ever don the maroon and white of the Acadia Axemen, but also one of the most memorable personalities to grace the court. He defied expectations with his incredible skill, heart, and determination. In 1970, Steve led the Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS)—now known as U Sports—in scoring.
This remarkable feat was accomplished during an era when the three-point shot had yet to be introduced, making his scoring accomplishments all the more impressive. His offensive creativity, relentless drive, and uncanny court awareness earned him admiration from teammates, opponents, and fans alike.
The following year, in 1971, Steve helped lead the Acadia Axemen to a Canadian national championship, a moment that remains one of the proudest in the university’s athletic history.
That team—fueled by unity, passion, and skill—represented the pinnacle of university basketball, and Steve was its heartbeat. His contributions to that championship run are woven into the lore of Acadia sports, and his name is often mentioned in conversations about the greatest Axemen of all time.
But Steve Pound was far more than just a basketball player. Off the court, he was known for his warmth, generosity, and irrepressible spirit. He was always ready with a smile, a laugh, and a story.
Whether reminiscing about his playing days, sharing life advice, or simply engaging in conversation, Steve had a way of making people feel seen and valued. His charisma and kindness were as consistent as his jump shot.
Alumni and friends from across the country have shared memories of Steve over the years—stories of his fierce competitiveness on the court and his deep camaraderie off it.
He had a remarkable way of making connections with people, whether he had known them for decades or had just met them. His presence brought joy, and his laughter was unmistakable—booming, heartfelt, and utterly infectious.
Even after his playing days, Steve remained an active and influential figure in Canadian basketball circles. He was an ambassador for the sport and a role model for generations of young athletes.
He never hesitated to support his alma mater, showing up at games, alumni events, and reunions, always proud to be an Axeman. His passion for the game and for Acadia never faded, and his loyalty to both was unwavering.
To lose someone like Steve is to lose a piece of history—of sport, of community, and of the human spirit. But his legacy endures. It lives in highlight reels, in the memories of fans, in the stories passed down through the years, and in the lives of those he inspired and mentored.
The Acadia family mourns his loss deeply, even as we celebrate the remarkable life he led. Steve Pound was a giant in a guard’s body—a towering figure of heart, skill, and character. We will miss him dearly, but we are forever grateful for what he gave to us all.
