University Nebraska Omaha Basketball Player Deng Mayar Dies at 22

Deng Mayar, a 22-year-old college basketball player who recently transferred to the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) Mavericks after two seasons with the North Dakota Fighting Hawks, has passed away. Mayar made 42 appearances and 15 starts for North Dakota and had joined UNO this offseason, where he was noted for his tremendous progress and positive impact on the team culture. The University of Nebraska Omaha, its athletics department, and both his current and former coaches expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to Mayar's family, friends, and teammates. UNO Chancellor Joanne Li and Athletic Director Adrian Dowell, along with head coach Chris Crutchfield, highlighted Mayar's joyfulness and the loss felt by the community. Former North Dakota head coach Paul Sather also mourned Mayar as a kind soul with a competitive spirit. The statements from multiple institutions and officials underscore the significant impact Mayar had both on and off the court.