Former UCLA basketball player Jalen Hill dies at 22 as Mick Cronin calls the loss ‘heartbreaking’

Jalen Hill, a former UCLA basketball player, has died at age 22, the school confirmed on Wednesday.

According to Hill’s father George, his son “was missing while he was in Costa Rica and we recently learned that he passed away,” as he shared on Instagram Tuesday night.

“We know that Jalen has played a part in the lives of so many people,” George continued.

“We also recognize the part so many of you played in his. As we try to navigate this devastating time in our lives, we ask that you please give us time to grieve. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers.”

More details about the death are not known at this time.

Hill was a top 100 recruit from Corona Centennial High School in Corona, California, playing for the Bruins from 2018-21 before leaving the team in February 2021 due to anxiety and depression.

UCLA head coach Mick Cronin also paid tribute to his former player in a statement.

“The news of Jalen Hill’s passing is heartbreaking,” Cronin said on Twitter.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time. Jalen was a warm-hearted young man with a big smile who left us far too soon.’

Hill joined the team in 2017 but did not play that season after being caught shoplifting (and later suspended) along with two teammates while the team was in China for a game.

Hill spoke about his decision to give up basketball in an April 2021 Instagram video

Hill was an important part of the UCLA team after rejoining the team after a suspension

The following year, he rejoined the team and grew into an important role for the team. He played in 77 games (40 starts) and averaged 6.5 points and 6.4 rebounds per game in his collegiate career.

His high school coach Josh Giles chose to remember his personality.

“Just a really good boy, had a great smile,” Giles told the… Los Angeles Times.

“He was a great basketball player, but I just loved him as a person.”