There’s sadness and then there’s tragedy.
For Colorado State Rams men’s basketball star Emmanuel Omogbo, tragedy struck on Tuesday.
Omogbo’s father, Samson, 63, mother Caroline, 55, and his sister’s two-year old twins died in a house fire in Chillum, MD. which is just outside Washington D.C. the Associated Press announced through fire marshals on the scene.
Colorado State coach Larry Eustachy released this statement on behalf of the team: “This is absolutely heartbreaking for Emmanuel, his family and for all of us that know him. There are no words to describe how it felt to hear this terrible news earlier today. They were a beautiful family that I enjoyed getting to know. The entire Colorado State men’s basketball team, athletic program and university will be there to support and help Emmanuel in any way we can through this incredibly tough time in his life.”
Omogbo is a first-year Rams basketball player, transferring from South Plains College, a junior college, where he led his team to a runner-up finish in the NJCAA Tournament last year. He was born in 1995 in Nigeria but was raised in Hyattesville, MD.
For the Rams, Omogbo’s 6-foot-8 frame helps him play inside the paint. His strength is evident, even if he is a bit raw on the court. He’s averaging 11.4 points and 7.4 rebounds for Colorado State, who sit at 10-8, 2-3 MW currently and are getting ready to take on the Air Force Academy Falcons (10-8, 1-4 MW) tonight. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. MT and will be televised on ROOT Sports Rocky Mountain.
No word on whether or not Omogbo will play, but it seems unlikely following a tragedy as large as this.
In the aftermath, many have reached out or expressed their sadness and concern for the 20-year old via social media in this shocking time. And Omogbo is dealing with it through Twitter, as well.
I know you still here with me. Rest up pops, Ma, Anna, and my lil boy🙏🏾. Don't forget what yu left behind. Love you
— Ball Culture (@longmoney_e) January 19, 2016
Today my heart is broken. We lost 4 extremely beautiful lives. But my job as a friend and mentor for Emmanuel will last forever! Love you E!
— Leonard Perry Jr (@leonardperry_jr) January 20, 2016
Please keep Emmanuel Omogbo and his family in your prayers… Love you E! #SouthPlainsFamily
— Hank Plona (@HankPlona_WKU) January 20, 2016
sorry about your loss, can't imagine what you're going through, you have my condolences youll be in my prayers stay strong bra @longmoney_e
— killua (@SwaggarooonieDG) January 20, 2016
@longmoney_e you're in our thoughts and prayers Emmanuel!
— Bryan (@breid6791) January 20, 2016
@longmoney_e I'm sorry for you loss. My thoughts are with you and your family
— Rly (@Arazi_92) January 20, 2016
https://twitter.com/GrantLarsonCSU/status/689628487024381952
“Team Together” is the men’s hoops team’s slogan; they really need to act as a family now.
Somehow, some way they’ll play a game tonight.
