Amidst the excitement of the NCAA Tournament, tragedy has struck. Grand Canyon basketball player Oscar Frayer died in a car accident early Tuesday morning in California. He was 23 years old.
Oscar Frayer, Grand Canyon Basketball Player, Dies in Car Crash
The devastating accident took place around 2:30 a.m in Lodi, California. According to California Highway Patrol, Frayer’s vehicle veered off the highway and struck a California Highway Patrol vehicle. It then hit a tree, and the SUV became engulfed in flames. All three passengers in the vehicle suffered fatal injuries. Frayer’s older sister, Andrea Moore, and an unidentified third party were the other victims.
For Frayer’s mother, this is most tragic. When Frayer was 7 years old, his father was lost in a car accident.
GCU offered their condolences, “On the court, Oscar 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.”
Frayer’s Impact
Frayer had already completed his academic requirements with a degree in Communications and was ready to attend April’s commencement. His academic achievements made him a model student, and his play and composure on the court made him a model athlete.
Coach Bryce Drew said, “He Was the heartbeat of our team with his vibrant energetic personality. I cannot put into words the hurt and sadness we all feel, but we know he is in heaven and that gives us great joy to know we will be together again.”
GCU won 65% of the games Frayer was on the roster and he started 107 contests for the Antelopes. His senior year, he averaged 6.6 points per game, two assists, and 2.5 rebounds. The 6’6” swingman holds the GCU’s Division I record for blocked shots (93), is fourth all-time in scoring (970) and 3-pointers (144), and tied for the most career steals (118).
Frayer was a key part of GCU’s fantastic season. The Antelopes earned a Western Athletic Conference title and a birth to the NCAA Tournament. In the Antelopes first round 74-86 loss to Iowa on Saturday, Frayer had eight points, three rebounds, three blocks, one steal, and five assists. It was his final game.
I bleed purple FOREVER!!!! THANK YOU LOPE NATION for the last 5 years..it’s been nothing less than amazing..from President Mueller, to our coaching staff, to my brothers who I compete with everyday..it’s love FOREVER. 4 Gone🤘🏿💜
— Oscar Proud #⃣4⃣ (@Oscar_Frayer) March 21, 2021
The GCU community, as well as all of college basketball, mourn his loss and our thoughts are with his family and friends.
Tough Year for the WAC
The WAC experienced more tragedy this season. On Feb. 7, UT Rio Grande Valley head basketball coach Lew Hill passed away unexpectedly in his sleep. He was 55.
A celebration of life will take place on Tuesday at GCU Arena. Not only for the Grand Canyon basketball player, but for the other six students and three faculty/staff members the university lost this academic year.
During this time, when we’ve finally found joy in the fact that college basketball has returned, we must always be reminded of how fragile life truly is. Rest in peace, Oscar, Andrea, and all.
Main Photo:
Embed from Getty Images
