Former Spanish Fort basketball player dies in New Orleans

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Former Spanish Fort High School student and basketball player Cole Whaley died over the weekend in New Orleans.

Whaley was a student at the University of Southern Mississippi and a member of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity.

University officials said they were notified on Saturday of Whaley’s death and Dean of Students Eddie Holloway released a statement saying the university was saddened by the news.

“The University was informed Saturday morning of the death of one of our students,” Holloway said. “We are all saddened by this tragedy, and are reaching out to his family, friends and loved ones to offer our prayers and support.”

The Spanish Fort Toros Boys Basketball Facebook page sent out an image of Whaley in his uniform on the court with a message of support for his family and friends.

“One of the smartest and most selfless players to put on a Toro uniform,” the post said. “The Toro basketball family misses you, Cole! Prayers for the Whaley family and friends.”

At this time, the Orleans Parish coroner has not yet released a cause for Whaley’s death.