PENNSYLVANIA — Students and staff at Imani Christian Academy are mourning the loss of 14-year-old Jaiquawn Jay, who collapsed during basketball practice Tuesday evening and later died at UPMC Children’s Hospital.
According to the medical examiner’s report, Jay collapsed around 7:30 p.m. inside the school gym. No cause has been announced for his collapse.
The school adjusted its morning schedule Wednesday to allow students and staff time to process the loss and brought in counselors to provide support.
Head Basketball Coach Khayree Wilson released a statement, saying, “Last night—our Imani family and the East Side community lost a truly special young man, Jaiquawn Jay. Jaiquawn was an incredible kid—hard-working, respectful, and built with a quiet toughness that set him apart. This loss will sit heavily on our hearts for a long time.”
The athletic community has also shown support. Woodland Hills High School posted on social media, “From our basketball family to yours. Our hearts are with the entire Imani Christian Academy basketball family for the loss of one of their own. No team should ever have to experience this kind of pain.” Other nearby school districts have expressed condolences to the school and Jay’s family.
