The Imani Christian Academy community in Pittsburgh is mourning the devastating loss of 14-year-old student-athlete Jaiquawn Jay, who collapsed during basketball practice and later died at a hospital. The tragic incident has left students, staff, and the wider community in shock and searching for answers.
Sudden Collapse During Basketball Practice
Jaiquawn Jay, a freshman at Imani Christian Academy, became unresponsive during a break in Tuesday evening's basketball workout. The medical examiner's report indicates the collapse occurred around 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 18, at the school's gymnasium. Emergency services responded immediately, transporting the teen to UPMC Children's Hospital.
Despite intensive medical efforts to save him, the young athlete was pronounced dead later that same night. School administrators communicated the heartbreaking news to parents via email, describing how Jaiquawn "became unresponsive while taking a break during basketball practice and later died en route to Children's Hospital."
Remembering Jaiquawn 'Jai' Jay
Known affectionately as Jai to his friends and teammates, the young athlete is being remembered as an exceptional individual both on and off the court. Head Basketball Coach Khayree Wilson shared an emotional tribute, describing Jaiquawn as "an incredible kid–hard-working, respectful, and built with a quiet toughness that set him apart."
Coach Wilson's statement to WTAE expressed the profound impact of the loss: "Last night-- our Imani family and the East Side community lost a truly special young man, Jaiquawn Jay. This loss will sit heavily on our hearts for a long time."
A fundraiser organized to support Jay's family reveals more about his life and interests. Born on March 31, 2011, Jaiquawn was actively involved in multiple sports, including baseball, soccer, football, and basketball. His favorite color was teal blue, and he was the youngest of four brothers, with siblings aged 35, 31, and 30.
Community Response and Support
The tragedy prompted immediate action from school administrators, who reshaped Wednesday's schedule to give students time to process their grief. Counselors were brought in to provide support for those struggling to cope with the sudden loss of their classmate and friend.
The shockwaves extended far beyond Imani Christian Academy, with schools across Pittsburgh expressing solidarity and support. Woodland Hills High School shared a public message honoring Jaiquawn and supporting the grieving basketball team: "Our hearts are with the entire Imani Christian Academy basketball family for the loss of one of your own. No team should ever have to experience this kind of pain. We stand with you in love, strength, and solidarity."
Other districts and youth sports programs throughout the region echoed similar sentiments, showing unified support for Jay's family and the school community. School officials have promised to share more details about counseling resources and memorial plans as students continue to gather and mourn together.
Authorities continue investigating what caused the teen's sudden medical emergency, though no specific information has been released yet. The grieving community remains waiting for clarity about the circumstances that led to this tragic outcome.
