Reggie Chaney, a standout forward for the Houston men’s basketball squad that made it to the 2021 Final Four, has tragically passed away, the institution confirmed on Tuesday.
At just 23 years of age, his untimely death has left the basketball community in shock.
Houston’s head coach, Kelvin Sampson, paid tribute to Chaney, describing him as the “quintessential teammate” and a true representation of the “Cougar basketball spirit.” Sampson also mentioned that Chaney was set to embark on a professional journey in Greece come August 28th.
Expressing her sorrow on social media, the university’s chancellor, Renu Khator, mentioned that the news has deeply saddened the entire university community.
Details surrounding his death emerged when he was found unresponsive in an Arlington, Texas apartment bedroom by a close family acquaintance. The local police spokesperson, Tim Ciesco, confirmed to the Houston Chronicle that there were no signs of foul play. However, investigations are still underway.
Hailing from Tulsa, Oklahoma, Chaney began his collegiate basketball journey at Arkansas, later transferring to Houston where he played for three seasons. Standing at 6-foot-8, Chaney made his mark in 32 matches during the 2020-21 season, even starting in the crucial Final Four game against the eventual winners, Baylor. In that match, he contributed six points and secured two rebounds in a span of 17 minutes.
His prowess on the court was further acknowledged when he was awarded the American Athletic Conference’s Sixth Man of the Year title last season. Under his influence, Houston clinched a top seed in the NCAA tournament, although their journey was halted in the Sweet 16.
Photo by Getty Images
