The athletic community is mourning the loss of University of Nebraska-Omaha men’s basketball player Deng Mayar, who tragically drowned Saturday at Blackridge Reservoir in Herriman, Utah, according to local authorities.
Herriman Police reported receiving a 911 call at 5:40 p.m. local time about two individuals struggling in the water. Responders arrived quickly, and bystanders assisted in rescuing Sa Mafutaga, 21, who had returned to the water in an attempt to save Mayar. Mafutaga was treated on scene and later transported to a hospital, where he is expected to recover.
After an extensive search involving rescue crews and specialized equipment, a submersible robot located Mayar’s body around 10:40 p.m., and divers recovered him at 11 p.m. He was pronounced dead at the scene. He was 22 years old.
Mayar, who previously played for the University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks, appeared in 42 games, averaging 5.7 points per game during his tenure there. He was preparing for his final season with Nebraska-Omaha.
“We are devastated to learn of Deng’s passing,” said Joanne Li, Chancellor of the University of Nebraska-Omaha, and Adrian Dowell, Director of Athletics, in a joint statement. “On behalf of our university community, our love and sincere condolences are with his family during this difficult time. We also wish his friends and teammates in Omaha, North Dakota, and Salt Lake City peace as they process this tragic loss.”
A GoFundMe organized by Mayar’s family to help cover funeral expenses and honor his memory had raised nearly $28,000 by Monday evening. The family wrote that the funds will help “lay him to rest peacefully and lovingly, surrounded by the same warmth and care he always gave to others.”
