The University of Mobile is mourning the loss of a basketball player who collapsed on campus Tuesday and never recovered.
Kaiden Francis, of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., passed away on Wednesday.
School president Charles Smith said students and medical professionals made heroic efforts to save Francis’ life.
Francis was a well-known and outstanding basketball player.
“My family and I had the privilege of watching Kaiden play just last week,” Smith said. “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.”
Miami-Dade High School basketball, where Francis played before college, posted, “One of the Broward County finest players. HE WAS ONE OF OURS!!! WE LOVE YOU. REST WELL POINT GUARD!”
Smith pointed students to scripture.
“As we walk through this together, I want to encourage you to remember where our help and hope come from,” he said. “You may recall the first chapel of the semester began with a simple, but profound question: ‘Who is God?”
“Psalm 23 reminded us that even in the darkest valleys, we can trust that God is good, God is in control, and God is working all things – including this unspeakable tragedy – together for His glory and the good of His people,” he continued. “That doesn’t answer all our questions, nor does it bring our friend back, but it does point us to our deepest need: faith in The One who has always been, and will always be, faithful. As we grieve together, let’s do so with eyes fixed squarely on Jesus.”
The school canceled classes Wednesday, and a campus-wide prayer was held at Ram Hall. Counselors are being made available to anyone in need.
A cause of death has not been determined.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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