HBU Mourns the Passing of Darius Lee
Lee was 21 years old
Courtesy of HBU Athletics Media Relations
HOUSTON – HBU is saddened to share the news of the passing of men's basketball player Darius Lee who died of a gunshot wound overnight, after a shooting at a gathering in his hometown of Harlem, New York.
Lee was on track to graduate with his bachelor's degree in December and was recently named HBU Robbie Robertson Male Student-Athlete of the Year. He was a second team All-Southland Conference selection for the 2021-22 season and led the Huskies in scoring and rebounding and was sixth in the nation in steals per game.
Statement from James Sears Bryant Head Men's Basketball Coach Ron Cottrell
"We are devastated. Darius was a remarkable young man who loved the Lord, his mom, his family, his teammates, his friends and his entire HBU family.
We are in shock and cannot wrap our heads around this news. My heart breaks for his mom, his sister and his entire family, and for our basketball team. The only thing we find comfort in right now is knowing where Darius is. He is in the arms of Jesus… we know that as fact. And we will see him again some day.
As great of a basketball player as he was, he was an even better person. I can't even think of basketball right now. I can only think of what a light Darius was during his short time on earth. He was a joy to coach and we loved him so much.
Please keep his mom, sister and family in your prayers, as well as our HBU basketball family, during this very difficult time."
Statement from HBU Director of Athletics Steve Moniaci
"Our prayers are with his family first and most importantly, but also with his friends, coaches, and teammates. He was a very fine young man who had a very bright future in front of him both on and off the court. This is unfortunately, yet again, another example of the senseless gun violence that seems to be plaguing our country right now and we all pray it will cease."