Jerry Tarkanian 'very critical' in hospital in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS -- A family member says Hall of Fame basketball coach Jerry Tarkanian remains hospitalized in very critical condition in Las Vegas, with family members at his side.

A son-in-law, Dr. Zafi Diamant, said Tuesday that the 84-year-old Tarkanian was fighting a respiratory ailment and infection for which he was taken by ambulance to a hospital Monday.

Son Danny Tarkanian characterized his father's condition as "minute by minute." He said earlier that doctors were trying to stabilize his father's condition and identify the infection.

It's the third hospitalization in 10 months for the coach dubbed "Tark the Shark."

He had his second heart attack in April and was treated for pneumonia in November.

Tarkanian led three schools to the NCAA tournament, including the 1990 UNLV team that won a national title.