A 14-year-old basketball player in Illinois died after collapsing during a game last week, according to reports.
According to multiple reports, Amari Crite died on Thursday after she fell on the court while playing a home game at Momence High School.
Crite, a starter, was heading to the defensive end of the basketball court when she went down, according to those familiar with the event as reported by the Daily Journal.
Grief counselors were present Friday at Momence High School to help students deal with the tragic loss, the Daily Journal reported.
The Kankakee County Coroner’s Office said the cause of death is pending further study.
A fundraising page for Crite's family was created Friday and surpassed its goal of $15,000. As of Monday morning, $47,322 had been raised.
In a statement Friday, Momence superintendent Shannon Anderson requested privacy for the family and the school community "during this difficult time.
“We are deeply saddened to confirm the heartbreaking news of the passing of one of our 9th-grade students on January 25, 2024," Anderson's statement said. "Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family and friends affected by this tragic loss ... Our primary focus right now is on supporting one another and providing the necessary resources for our community to cope with this loss. We ask for your understanding and cooperation in this matter."
