Star basketball talent Caleb White, from Alabama, has died at the age of 17 after collapsing on the court at Pinson Valley High School during a practice session
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Caleb White, a high school basketball star from Alabama, has died after reportedly collapsing during a practice session at school.
According to multiple reports, the 17-year-old was pronounced dead at a local hospital on Thursday.
White was a three-star contender, averaging 20.9 points, 3.1 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per game.
The cause of death is currently unknown, but AL.com reports that an autopsy will be conducted on Friday to clarify.
White reportedly collapsed Thursday during a practice session with his team at Pinson Valley High School before being taken to St. Vincent’s East Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama.
Caleb White, a top 25 high school basketball star, has died after collapsing during practice
His grandfather, George Varnadoe Jr., posted a touching tribute on Facebook following the news.
“Caleb was an honor student, very respectful, highly intelligent, an excellent role model, a phenomenal basketball player, ranked 25th best point guard in his class in the country and ranked #2 in the state of Alabama.” RIP Caleb. I love you man.’
Headmaster Michael Turner released a statement following the tragedy, which he shared with parents.
“I regret to report some very sad news tonight,” Turner wrote. “One of our seniors suffered a medical emergency at school today. Life-saving measures were taken immediately and first responders were called.
“Unfortunately, the student was later pronounced dead after being transported to the hospital. “Out of respect for the family, we are not releasing the student’s name at this time,” he said.
“We’ll have more to say in the near future.” Please note that advisory resources will be available in the coming days for anyone who needs them. Please keep the student’s family and our school in your prayers.’
The senior was a first-team All-State player and played in the North-South All-Star Game last month.
Pinson Mayor Joe Cochran paid tribute to White on the City of Pinson, Alabama’s Facebook page.
Heartbroken,” Cochran wrote. “There are no words to offer comfort to a family and community experiencing the loss of young people.”
“Please lift up Caleb’s family and friends and the entire PVHS community in prayer for the hours, weeks, months and years to come.”
“It was an honor to know Caleb personally and I loved the spirit he embodied.” Life is fleeting, enjoy each day for what it is, I know Caleb did.
White’s friend Arnold Thomas spoke to ABC 33/40 in Birmingham on Thursday and expressed his sadness and love for the 17-year-old.
“Today was just heartbreaking.” “I can’t even put it into words,” he said. “Just seeing him do what he did was amazing.”
“Caleb is a great person. His parents did an excellent job in raising him. All I can say is long live Caleb and I hope his parents get through this.”
Also, Richele Crawford, senior fellow at Pinson Valley, told the station of the greatness White possessed.
“He was a phenomenal player,” she said. “Every time I saw him, I was fascinated. It was always fun to watch him.
“He was always smiling and laughing… I will always remember him on and off the pitch.”