Reggie Chaney, a forward who was part of the University of Houston’s 2021 Final Four squad, tragically passed away at the age of 23 on Monday.
The sad news of his death was confirmed by a source closely associated with the university’s basketball program. At this time, the exact cause of his passing has not been disclosed.
Chaney had been preparing to embark on a new chapter in his basketball career by joining AE Psychiko, a professional team located in Athens, Greece.
His tenure with the Cougars spanned three seasons, concluding in the previous season when he received recognition as the Sixth Man of the Year in the American Athletic Conference.
Originally hailing from Tulsa, Oklahoma, Chaney spent his first two college seasons playing for the University of Arkansas.
Upon his arrival at the University of Houston, Chaney quickly endeared himself to fans due to his selfless style of play.
He was willing to contribute from the bench, and his remarkable tenacity in the face of numerous injuries, including hand, knee, and back problems.
Despite these challenges, he rarely, if ever, missed a game, amassing over 100 appearances for the Cougars during their successful postseason campaigns.
Reggie Chaney Obituary And Cause Of Death
Reggie Chaney, who had a collegiate basketball career at Arkansas and later at Houston, tragically passed away on Monday at 23.
However, specific information regarding the circumstances of his passing was not disclosed.
He was survived by his parents, Reggie Lee and Chandra Chaney, two sisters, Aubrey Lee and Damia Chaney, and brother Carter Lee.
The late basketball player was speculated to dating his girlfriend, Shanalie Aaliyah, who commented on one of his Instagram pictures, “Mine Forever.”
Those acquainted with Chaney often spoke of his warm and expansive smile, describing it as welcoming and amicable.
Coach Kelvin Sampson fondly referred to him as his “security blanket,” emphasizing the indispensable role Chaney played on a team.
Following the tragic news of Chaney’s death, messages of condolence began pouring in.
Around a week ago, an agency representing the basketball players announced that Reggie Chaney was on his way to Greece to commence his rookie season with Psychiko B.C., a professional basketball team.
Illustrious Collegiate Career
Chaney’s collegiate basketball journey began at Arkansas in 2018, where he played for two seasons before transferring to the University of Houston.
He was a member of the 2021 Houston squad that reached the NCAA Tournament’s Final Four.
Chaney served as a forward and participated in 63 games for the Razorbacks and 104 games for the Cougars.
In the most recent season, he concluded his college basketball career with the Cougars. The Cougars advanced to the Sweet Sixteen before facing defeat against Miami in 2022.
In his final season, Chaney played a pivotal role in the University of Houston’s rise to the top, securing a No. 1 ranking and the highest regional seed in the NCAA Tournament.
That season, Chaney maintained an average of 3.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 0.7 steals per game, contributing across 35 appearances, including one start.
He was once again honored as the Sixth Man of the Year in the American Athletic Conference earlier in the year.
