A University of Mobile basketball player collapsed dead Tuesday morning after finishing his weekly skills' workout, college officials said.
Kaiden Francis, 18, was found unresponsive and died “despite the quick and heroic efforts of students and medical professionals,” University President Dr. Charles Smith said.
“Our hearts are heavy as we process this tragedy.”
A spokesperson for the Christian college revealed that the 6-foot-2 freshman recently passed “a battery of health screenings, including heart and lung evaluations”.
“None of these tests indicate health concerns. Out of respect for the family, we have no plans to comment further at this time,” she said.
Mobile’s Wednesday game against Southern University at New Orleans was postponed, classes were canceled for the day, and a two-hour campus-wide memorial service was held.
“My family and I had the privilege of watching Kaiden play just last week,” Smith added.
“He was profoundly gifted and clearly loved by his teammates. As you can imagine, Kaiden’s family, coaches, and teammates are heartbroken and need our prayers.”
