The college basketball world has been struck by tragedy. Late Monday night, Joseph Duarte of The Houston Chronicle reported that Reggie Chaney had passed away at 23. Chaney played for the Arkansas Razorbacks from 2019-20, then for the Houston Cougars from 2020 through this past 2022-23 season, including on their run to the 2021 Final Four.
Sad news to pass along …
Former Houston forward Reggie Chaney, a member of the 2021 Final Four team, has passed away. He was 23.
Chaney began his career at Arkansas.
No details available at this time.#RIP pic.twitter.com/zIZse56Hzh
— Joseph Duarte (@Joseph_Duarte) August 21, 2023
Duarte later shared more details in a Chronicle story:
Reggie Chaney, a forward on the University of Houston’s 2021 Final Four team, passed away Monday. He was 23.
A person close to the program confirmed Chaney’s death. A cause of death was not immediately available.
Chaney was set to leave to play with AE Psychiko, a professional basketball team based in Athens, Greece.
…Coach Kelvin Sampson fondly referred to Chaney as a “security blanket” for his veteran leadership and ability to adapt to any role.
“Reggie is like that penny (at the convenience store), when you need him, he’s there,” Sampson once described Chaney.
Despite a long list of injuries, Chaney appeared in 103 games for Houston from 2020-23. He averaged 13.4 points and 2.7 rebounds per game last season and was named the American Athletic Conference’s sixth man of the year. And the Cougars’ community, the Razorbacks’ community, and the wider basketball community all paid tribute to him Tuesday:
Two words that describe Reggie “Always Dependable”. No matter the situation yk Reg gonna give his 110%. Glad I got the chance to lace em up with him, without Reg we don’t accomplish half the things we did. Rest easy brother LOVE ❤️👼🏽
— Justin Gorham (@JustinG4_) August 21, 2023
In my short time coaching, Reggie was one of the most selfless players I’ve been around. Worked his butt off, professional mindset, wanted to see EVERYONE win! I know God makes no mistakes but this one Wheww 💔 praying for his family and teammates 🙏🏾
— Mikhail McLean 🇧🇸 (@Coach_McLean) August 22, 2023
Cougar family mourns the loss of Reggie Chaney, the giant among giants of Houston basketball… the news has left us with sad and heavy hearts.
— Renu Khator (@UHpres) August 22, 2023
We are heartbroken by the passing of forward Reggie Chaney
#⃣3⃣2⃣ will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him#RIPReggie pic.twitter.com/qzMTNm6GoG
— Houston Men's Hoops 🏀 🐾 (@UHCougarMBK) August 22, 2023
The Razorback men’s basketball family is devastated to hear of the loss of Reggie Chaney. He was a relentless worker and loved by his teammates. His family is in our thoughts and prayers. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/p3E33QhFBC
— Eric Musselman (@EricPMusselman) August 22, 2023
I went to a @UHCougarMBK practice & it was obviously high intensity. But I will never forget assistant @kellenmsampson telling me, “Reggie Chaney is in class. Wait until you see the intensity level skyrocket when Reggie gets here.” RIP, Reggie. Too, too young. 🙏🏻🏀
— Fran Fraschilla (@franfraschilla) August 22, 2023
This is so, so sad. Gone way too soon. Former Houston player Reggie Chaney has passed away at just 23. Awful news.
Was set to leave next week for Greece on his first pro deal. https://t.co/lpbsA1b0xz
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) August 22, 2023
Shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of former Houston and Arkansas forward Reggie Chaney. Tough, reliable and a selfless teammate, always. Heartbreaking. RIP Reggie Chaney. pic.twitter.com/UlbcDbmV9v
— Jay Bilas (@JayBilas) August 22, 2023
Very sad day for our agency as we found out about the passing of Reggie Chaney. Was a blessing getting to know him, and how hard he worked for his dreams. You will be missed. Our Condolences and prayers go out to the family and friends of Reggie.
— VM Hoops Agency (@VMHoopsAgency) August 22, 2023
Our thoughts go out to Chaney’s family and friends, and to everyone impacted by his passing.
