UH men's hoops mourns loss of ex-player Chaney

The University of Houston (UH) Cougar’s men’s basketball program is mourning the loss of former player Reggie Cheney, who passed away on Aug. 21 at the age of 23. Chaney, who recently graduated from the university, last suited up for head coach Kelvin Sampson during the 2022-2023 season. 

“We are heartbroken by the passing of forward Reggie Chaney,” UH wrote in an Aug. 22 Twitter post. “[No. 32] will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.” 

KPRC Channel 2 reports that Sampson confirmed Chaney’s passing in a statement. According to the station, the circumstances surrounding the Tulsa, OK native’s death have not yet been released. Sampson, the second-winningest coach in UH history, said in the statement the 6-foot-8, 230-pound Chaney was slated to begin a professional career in Greece.

“First in his family to graduate from college. Reached his dream of signing a professional basketball contract,” Sampson said in a statement, according to KPRC. “He was leaving Monday, Aug. 28th for Greece. A Son. A Grandson. A Brother. The ultimate teammate. The Identity of our Cougar Basketball Culture. A winner. Thank you, God, for allowing Reggie to come into our lives. Rest easy Reg. Your legacy will live on forever. I love you and will miss you dearly.” 

KPRC reports that Chaney played in more than 100 games in three seasons with the Cougars, who have become a national powerhouse of sorts in the last half-decade. KHOU Channel 11 reports the Arlington Police Department (APD) found Chaney dead at a home in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) suburb. First responders pronounced him dead at the scene. Authorities said there were no signs of foul play. Chaney was scheduled to travel to Greece to play a rookie season for Psychiko B.C., according to an agency that represents basketball players, the station reported.