Deng Mayar, a promising 22-year-old college basketball player for the University of Nebraska at Omaha, tragically passed away on Saturday, August 16, 2025, after a drowning incident at Blackridge Reservoir in Herriman, Utah. Mayar had recently transferred to Omaha from the University of North Dakota, where he had completed two seasons, averaging 6.3 points and 4.0 rebounds per game. Originally from Salt Lake City, Mayar was a graduate student and forward for the Omaha Mavericks.
According to Herriman police, Mayar and a companion, 21-year-old Sa Mafutaga, were swimming approximately 35 yards from shore when they began to struggle in the water. Mafutaga managed to reach the shore but returned to assist Mayar. Despite his efforts, Mafutaga was unable to reach Mayar, who went underwater and did not resurface. Rescue teams, including the Unified Fire Authority, South Jordan Fire, and the Utah Highway Patrol dive team, conducted an extensive search. A submersible robot located Mayar’s body around 10:40 p.m., and divers recovered it shortly thereafter. Mafutaga was treated at the scene and taken to the hospital, where he is expected to recover.
Mayar’s death has deeply affected both the Omaha and North Dakota basketball communities. Omaha head coach Chris Crutchfield expressed his sorrow, stating, “Deng was a joy to be around and made our culture better. We will miss him greatly.” North Dakota head coach Paul Sather also shared his condolences, describing Mayar as “a wonderful person with a heart the size of a gym.” Both universities have extended their deepest sympathies to Mayar’s family, friends, and teammates.
Mayar’s family has requested privacy during this difficult time. The community continues to mourn the loss of a young athlete with a bright future ahead.
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