College Basketball Legend's Son Dies Unexpectedly at 13

A rising basketball star in the state of Virginia has tragically died, and college basketball fans around the country are mourning with his father.

Multiple local outlets around the city of Richmond have reported that 13-year-old Jaylen Martinez has died. Martinez was the son of VCU basketball legend Joey Rodriguez, who starred for the Rams from 2007 through 2011.

Rodriguez was the starting point guard on the 2011 VCU team that made the Final Four, becoming the first team to start the tournament in the play-in round to accomplish the feat.

He is currently an assistant coach at Florida International University in Miami.

"The VCU Basketball family is heartbroken by the sudden passing of Jaylen Martinez," said vice president and athletic director Ed McLaughlin.

"Jaylen has grown up around our program, and his competitor’s spirit and love of the game endeared him to everyone here who had the opportunity to get to know him.

There are no adequate words to dull his loved ones’ pain, but the entire VCU Basketball community stands ready to provide whatever love and support we can to lift the Martinez and Rodriguez families during this devastating time.” 

The 13-year-old Martinez was set to begin his high school basketball career in the fall at Benedictine College Prep. 

“We love you #5. Our hearts go out to Ciera and family. We are always here for you," said the local RockIt sports league, where Martinez was a competitor.

He most recently helped lead his team at Liberty Middle School in Ashburn to a county championship, and wanted to follow in his father's footsteps to basketball.

Rodriguez did not confirm the death of his son in his latest social media posts, but he simply posted several family photos to his account on Monday.

“Rest In Peace to one of our own. A true competitor, a great teammate, a champion and a beloved soul," said Richmond Elite Academy on social media. Martinez played for the youth basketball program in the city.

"Jay you will be missed deeply. Our hearts are with his family, friends, and coaches during this time."

Rest in peace to Jaylen Martinez, and our thoughts also go out to his family, friends and loved ones following his tragic passing,