College basketball star, 23, dies before pro career.

A Tragic ⁤Loss: College Basketball Star​ Dies at Age 23

A former college basketball standout⁤ has tragically passed away at the young age of 23, just days​ before he was set to ⁣embark on a promising professional career. This heartbreaking news has left the sports community in shock and mourning.

Reggie Chaney, who recently completed a successful career at the University⁣ of​ Houston, where he ⁣was named the ⁤2022-23 AAC Sixth Man⁣ of the Year, reportedly⁢ died suddenly. The cause of his death has not yet been announced, leaving many in⁤ disbelief.

Originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma,⁤ Chaney attended high school at the⁤ prestigious Findlay Prep academy in Henderson, Nevada.

After graduating, he played two seasons for​ the University of Arkansas before transferring to ‌Houston in 2020. During the ‍2022-2023 season, Chaney started one game for the Cougars and played in 35, showcasing his talent and dedication to ⁤the sport.

Chaney’s statistics speak⁤ to his skill on the court, averaging ⁢three points, 2.7 ‌rebounds, and ‍0.7⁤ steals per game. Prior to his time at Houston, he⁣ also had impressive performances during his freshman and sophomore seasons with⁤ the Razorbacks, averaging 4.8 points and 3.4 rebounds per game.

The news of Chaney’s untimely passing has deeply affected those who knew him. Matt Zimmerman, Arkansas basketball operations director ‌and former coach, expressed his sadness, saying, “It breaks your heart that he’s passed away⁣ at such a young ⁣age. It seems like yesterday he came on his official visit. I just can’t believe he’s gone already.”

Head coach Kelvin Sampson of the University of Houston ⁢also⁢ shared his thoughts ‍on Chaney, describing him as a reliable and selfless teammate. Sampson referred to Chaney as his “security blanket,” highlighting ⁣the impact he had on the team.

“Reggie is like that penny (at the convenience store), when you⁤ need him he’s there.” ‌-⁤ Houston coach Kelvin Sampson

Chaney’s passing has​ reverberated beyond his immediate circle, with ESPN analyst Jay Bilas expressing his shock and‌ sadness upon hearing the news. Bilas described Chaney as tough, reliable, and a selfless teammate, emphasizing the heartbreaking loss.

Chaney’s ⁣Instagram account,⁢ @_reggiechaney, offers a glimpse into ‍his life and achievements. In May, he shared photos of his graduation, celebrating his academic accomplishments alongside ‍his basketball career.

Tragically, Chaney’s promising future ⁣was cut​ short. He ‌had signed a contract to play professional basketball in Greece and was set to​ travel there next‌ week. The basketball community mourns the‌ loss‍ of a talented ‍athlete who had so much‌ potential.

Our thoughts and condolences go out to Reggie Chaney’s family, friends, teammates, and coaches during​ this difficult time. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and admired him.

Source: The Western Journal