College Basketball Player Dies On Campus, He Was 18

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University of Mobile freshman basketball player Kaiden Francis passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, Nov. 19, after collapsing on campus while pursuing his passion for the game. He was 18. Head basketball coach Darnell Archey paid tribute to Francis in a heartfelt Facebook post, saying

“Yesterday morning Kaiden Francis, freshman point guard from Fort Lauderdale unexpectedly passed away after doing what he loved to do, working on his craft in the gym.

Kaiden was just scratching the surface on the court but his smile and positive energy could be felt from day 1.

He will be truly missed and I can’t thank him enough for being a part of my life over the past few months.  My heart aches for his family, friends and teammates.”

University President Charles Smith expressed his condolences in a letter to students and faculty, noting that “despite the quick and heroic efforts of students and medical professionals, Kaiden never recovered.”

Per a statement to PEOPLE, Associate Vice President for University Communications Kathy Dean said, “Like all of our athletes, Kaiden recently passed a battery of health screenings, including heart and lung evaluations. None of these tests indicated health concerns. Kaiden was found unresponsive shortly after he finished his weekly skills workout with UM coaching staff and trainers. Out of respect for the family, we have no plans to comment further at this time.”

Kaiden Francis, a 6-foot-2 guard from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., showcased his talent in six games this season for the University of Mobile Rams, averaging 5.5 points while shooting 42.4% from the field.

In his final game on Nov. 16 against Life University, Francis delivered a career-high performance, scoring 10 points.

Per The University of Mobile’s website, the school  is a private “Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences university.”

Rest In Peace.

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