Dai-Jon Parker mourned after drowning in Indiana reservoir
University of Indianapolis guard Dai-Jon Parker, known for his smile and outgoing personality, drowned Thursday in a boating accident at Morse Reservoir, officials said.
The news stunned numerous college and professional players who competed with and against Parker in the past.
Parker was a senior on last season’s team after transferring from Vanderbilt where he played three years. He grew up in Baton Rouge, La., but played his high school basketball in Milton, Ga., at Milton High School. He was part of a state championship team in 2010.
The Indianapolis Star reported Parker and another man were being pulled on an inner-tube behind a pontoon boat when they hit a large wave that knocked them both into the water. Parker never resurfaced according to witnesses, who called 911 for help. He was not wearing a life jacket.
Parker was found at the bottom of an 11-foot deep portion of the lake two hours after he went missing. First reponders used sonar technology to help locate him.
The University issued a statement on Parker’s death after it was confirmed.
“The entire University of Indianapolis community mourns the loss of Dai-Jon Parker, a senior student-athlete with a vibrant personality who had a great future ahead,” the statement said. “This is a tragic situation for everyone involved, and UIndy is offering counseling and support to the people closest to him. Please keep Dai-Jon’s family, friends and teammates in your thoughts and prayers.”
Vanderbilt head coach Kevin Stallings also issued a statement.
“We are extremely saddened with the news of Dai-Jon’s death,” Stallings said. “Everyone who watched him play basketball knew what kind of athlete he was. But, to those of us who knew him and loved him, he was as good and happy of a person as you would ever meet. He always had a smile on his face and I will always remember him for that smile and the positive spirit he had. We send our deepest condolences and prayers to his family, friends, and others who were lucky enough to have met him. The Vanderbilt basketball family will miss him.”
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[Kyle Ringo is the assistant editor of The Dagger on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter! Follow @KyleRingo
