A University of Mobile basketball player in Alabama died after collapsing after a workout at the gym, according to his coach.
Kaiden Francis was a freshman basketball player from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., university President Charles Smith said in a message to students. Francis was found unconscious shortly after a weekly workout with the university’s coaching staff and trainers, according to the Associated Press. Students and medical professionals attempted to help, but “despite quick and heroic efforts,” Francis died Tuesday, according to Smith.
The cause of death has not been released. Francis had recently undergone several health exams, including heart and lung evaluations, according to the Associated Press.
Francis’ trainer, Darnell Archey, said on social media that before Francis collapsed, the point guard was “doing what he loved to do, working on his craft in the gym.”
“Kaiden was just scratching the surface of the field, but his smile and positive energy were felt from day one,” Archey wrote. “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.”
Classes were canceled Wednesday to give students time to grieve, and counseling services are available, Smith said.
Francis played a match against Georgia’s Life University on Saturday, November 16. He came off the bench and scored 10 points, according to the Associated Press. The University of Mobile won the game.
“My family and I had the privilege of watching Kaiden play last week,” Smith said. “He was profoundly gifted and clearly loved by his teammates.”
