x
Breaking News
More () »

Grand Canyon University basketball player dies in California car crash

Oscar Frayer, 23, was a forward for the team and a senior communications major at the college.

PHOENIX — Watch the GCU memorial service below:

A member of the Grand Canyon University men’s basketball team has died after being involved in a car crash in California on Tuesday.

Oscar Frayer, 23, was a forward for the team and senior communication major at GCU.

The university confirmed Frayer's death on Thursday in a statement that read in part: 

"It is with great sorrow and a heavy heart that we share the news that Grand Canyon University student and basketball player Oscar Frayer was one of three individuals who died in an auto accident in Lodi, California, on Tuesday. Also in the vehicle was Oscar’s sister, Andrea Moore, 28, from Stockton, California."

A third, unidentified person also died in the car crash in Lodi, California, on Tuesday.

Listed at 6-feet, 6-inches and 190 pounds, Frayer served as a starter during the Antelopes' first NCAA Tournament appearance on Saturday.

He earned 8 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists during the squad’s 86-74 loss to No. 2 Iowa.

Current and former teammates including DeWayne Russell, Gerard Martin, Alessandro Lever, Casey Benson and Gabe McGlothan each posted tribute posts to Frayer on social media.

RELATED: Two officers injured in deadly I-5 crash near Lodi are expected to survive, CHP says

Frayer had completed his academic requirements to graduate in April and was a starter on the men’s basketball team for four years.

On the court, Frayer was known as the “High Flyer” and will be remembered for his soaring dunks, tenacious defense and game-changing blocked shots. 

Off the court, he will be remembered for his infectious smile, energetic spirit and caring soul that made him one of the most well-liked students on campus."

GCU coach Bryce Drew said Frayer "had an unbelievable ability to light up a while gym with [his] smile."

Frayer was from Oakland, California, and attended Moreau Catholic High School before committing to GCU in 2016. 

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Tuesday night. Watch it below: 

RELATED: Sharp-shooting Iowa gets 24 from Garza to beat Grand Canyon

Sports

Watch more of the latest sports videos on the 12 News YouTube channel. Don’t forget to subscribe! 

Before You Leave, Check This Out