The Little Rock men’s basketball team has been rocked by tragedy following the death of student manager Josh Claxton.
The Trojans announced the sad news Saturday afternoon, revealing that Claxton had died in a car accident.
As a result of his death, Little Rock’s game against Eastern Illinois was postponed, with the school paying an emotional tribute to Claxton.
The manager was described as ‘a dedicated and integral member’ of the team and an ‘incredible kid’.
“The players loved him, the coaching staff loved him and he would do anything to help the team or the coaches,” head coach Darrell Walker said.
“Being a manager in any sport, football, basketball or baseball, is a thankless job. Josh loved it from sun up to sun down. He will be truly missed. This is a great loss for the Trojan family.”
Little Rock basketball has been rocked by the death of student manager Josh Claxton
He was described as an ‘incredible kid’
According to LinkedInClaxton has been interning as team manager since June.
He was set to graduate next year with a master’s degree in sports management after earning his bachelor’s degree in recreation and sports management from the University of Arkansas.
Athletics director Frank Cuervo praised Claxton’s “energy, positive spirit and unwavering dedication to the team,” which “had a lasting impact on everyone he met.”
‘He was not only a colleague, but a true friend to many.’
Cuervo added that Claxton’s presence “will be deeply missed.”
“Trojan Nation, Saturday morning the Little Rock men’s basketball team tragically lost student manager Josh Claxton in a car accident,” the team said in a statement.
‘Due to these unforeseen circumstances, today’s match will be vs. Eastern Illinois postponed.
“The Little Rock Department of Athletics, Eastern Illinois and the Ohio Valley Conference are working together to make every effort to reschedule the game for a later date.
“Our thoughts are with Josh’s family and those who loved him. He will be greatly missed.”