NCCU men’s basketball player from Macon, Ga., dies at 22, weeks before graduating
A North Carolina Central University basketball player from Macon, Georgia, died Friday, weeks before his expected graduation this summer, the university reported.
Devin Butts, 22, was nearing completion of a bachelor’s degree in behavioral and social sciences, an NCCU news release said. He joined the team last season after transferring from New Mexico Junior College, and averaged 5.4 points in 17 appearances for NCCU’s Eagles.
”We are deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of Devin. This is a devastating tragedy for our team, fans, and the entire NCCU community,” NCCU men’s basketball head coach LeVelle Moton said in the news release. “Devin will always be remembered as an incredible teammate that had an infectious smile at all times. Our heartfelt condolences are with his family and those who were blessed to know him.”
Butts scored 15 points on five 3-pointers in the team’s win over Delaware State in the MEAC Championship quarterfinals on March 8, according to his team bio. His highest scoring game was against Toccoa Falls on Jan. 3 with 16 points.
He played for Stratford Academy prep school in Macon and was listed as a three-star prospect by 247Sports.com.
A cause of death has not been reported.
This story was originally published May 6, 2023 at 10:04 AM with the headline "NCCU men’s basketball player from Macon, Ga., dies at 22, weeks before graduating."