University of Wisconsin-Whitewater student-athlete
Derek Gray (Madison, Wis./La Follette) (Madison/Madison La Follette), a member of the Warhawk men's basketball team, passed away Sunday evening at the age of 20.
"Words cannot describe how we all feel about the loss of Derek," UW-Whitewater Director of Intercollegiate Athletics
Ryan Callahan said. "He was an amazing young man with a bright future. My heart goes out to his family and all that were fortunate enough to get to know Derek."
Gray was a two-year member of the Warhawk men's basketball program. Last season, he was third team D3hoops.com all region 9, first team all-WIAC and three-time WIAC player of the week.
"Our program is devastated by the loss of
Derek Gray (Madison, Wis./La Follette). Derek was beloved and respected by his teammates for his unique ability to develop meaningful connections with every individual throughout our program. He was an intelligent, compassionate, and inquisitive person by nature," said
Pat Miller, head men's basketball coach. "I'll forever cherish our long talks about life, community, basketball and the various issues of our day. As a basketball player, Derek led by example with a consistent work ethic and desire to always get better at the game he loved. He was a tenacious competitor and a dynamic athlete, that did everything possible to help ensure his team achieved success. He was both respected and valued by his teammates at a level few in our program have ever achieved. He's left a legacy in our program that will be remembered and emulated by players for generations to come. I wish to extend my deepest condolences to his mother, Traci, as well as his entire family, friends and all that are grieving from this loss."
Gray majored in psychology with a minor in criminology. He was on pace to graduate in the spring of 2024.
The UW-Whitewater flag will fly at half-staff on Friday, July 29, 2022, in Derek's memory.
Counseling services are available at University Health and Counseling Services, which is located in the Ambrose Health Center building. Appointments may be made by calling 262-472-1305.
