Reggie Chaney, Former University of Houston Basketball Player, Dead at 23

Reggie Chaney, 23, a former University of Arkansas basketball player, died, according to a Monday report from the Houston Chronicle (paywalled).

Chaney had a promising future in basketball ahead of him after two seasons with Arkansas Razorbacks and three at the University of Houston.

He had recently signed a contract to play professionally in Greece, according to a report from WholeHogSports.

“It’s devastating news,” said former Razorbacks staffer Matt Zimmerman. “It breaks your heart that he’s passed away at such a young age. It seems like yesterday he came on his official visit.”

“I just can’t believe he’s gone already.”

Chaney, who hailed from Tulsa, played 63 games for Arkansas during his freshman and sophomore years, averaging 4.8 points and 3.4 points per game, the WholeHogSports report noted.

In his sophomore season, he was coached by Eric Musselman.

“The Razorback men’s basketball program is devastated to hear of the loss of Reggie Chaney,” coach Musselman said. “He was a relentless worker and loved by his coaches and teammates. His family is in our thoughts and prayers.”

Little Rock Parkview High School coach Scotty Thurman was an Arkansas assistant coach who recruited and coached Chaney.

“Reggie and I had a big brother/little brother relationship!” Thurman said. “It was built off trust! I am extremely saddened by this loss! My heart cries out for his family at this time!”

During his time at Houston, Chaney played under coach Kelvin Sampson and was part of Cougar teams that notched a remarkable 93–14 record.

The Cougars made it to the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament’s Final Four in 2021, during Chaney’s first season.

Zimmerman highlighted Chaney’s skills on the court, describing him as an enforcer who was “tough, physical, strong, and hard-nosed.”

Upon his transfer from Arkansas after the 2019–20 season, Chaney expressed gratitude towards the Razorbacks on social media.

“These past two years being an Arkansas Razorback have been a wonderful experience,” Chaney said at the time.

“To my teammates, thank you for pushing me each and every day in practice,” continued Chaney. “All the memories we have, I will cherish. It truly has been a pleasure to play at Bud Walton Arena. Excited to see what this next chapter has for me.”