Last Updated on 2 months by Vijay Kumar
The University of Nebraska Omaha and the wider college basketball community are mourning the loss of forward Deng Mayar, who tragically passed away on August 16, 2025, in a drowning incident at Blackridge Reservoir in Herriman, Utah. He was just 22 years old.
Authorities confirmed that Mayar had gone swimming at the reservoir with a friend, 21-year-old Sa Mafutaga, on Saturday evening. While both men entered the water, witnesses reported that they began struggling. Mafutaga managed to reach safety, but Mayar disappeared beneath the surface. Rescue crews, including divers and a submersible robot, launched an intensive search, eventually recovering his body later that night.
The Herriman Police Department confirmed the incident in an official statement, describing the tragedy as an accidental drowning. “Despite immediate rescue efforts, one of the swimmers, identified as 22-year-old Deng Mayar, could not be saved. Our hearts go out to his family and community during this devastating time,” the department said.
He born in Magna, Utah, Mayar rose to prominence as a standout basketball player at Judge Memorial Catholic High School in Salt Lake City. His journey took him through junior colleges at Western Texas, Coffeyville, and Howard before transferring to the University of North Dakota (UND).
During his two seasons with the UND Fighting Hawks, Mayar appeared in 42 games, averaging over six points and four rebounds per game. Known for his athleticism and defensive presence, he was both a reliable contributor on the court and a respected teammate off it.
In the summer of 2025, he transferred to Nebraska Omaha as a graduate student-athlete, preparing to make his mark with the Mavericks in the upcoming season. His sudden passing has left both institutions devastated.
The University of Nebraska Omaha released an emotional statement following the confirmation of his death. Chancellor Joanne Li said: “We are heartbroken to lose a member of our Maverick family. Deng was not only a talented athlete but also a kind and uplifting young man. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, teammates, and everyone whose lives he touched.”
UNO head coach Chris Crutchfield also paid tribute, recalling the team’s excitement in welcoming Mayar: “After competing against him for two years, we were elated to add him to our team. Deng was a joy to be around and made our culture better. We will miss him greatly.”
My name is Vijay Kumar. I work as content writer and founder of this website. I am studying BSC IT. I has been writing content since 2022. I also learn about journalism.