Former UCLA forward Jalen Hill has passed away / News - Basketnews.com

Former UCLA Bruins forward Jalen Hill, who ended his career due to anxiety and depression problems in 2021, has passed away at the age of 22.

Credit: USA TODAY Sports Credit USA TODAY Sports

Former UCLA Bruins forward Jalen Hill has passed away at age 22, as earlier reported by Ben Bolch of the Los Angeles Times.

Initially, he was reported missing in Costa Rica. No details were revealed regarding the circumstances of his death.

Before Hill went on to become a starting forward-center at UCLA, he was coached by Josh Giles at Corona Centennial High school.

"Just a really good kid, had a great smile," said Giles about Hill.

"He was a great basketball player, but I just loved him as a person," the coach added.

Jalen Hill's father, George Hill, confirmed the death of his son by sharing a heartfelt message on Instagram and asking for time to grieve.

"Our hearts are shattered and completely broken to inform family and friends that our beloved son, Jalen, has passed away," George Hill wrote on Instagram.

"Jalen went missing while in Costa Rica, and we have recently learned of his passing. We realize that many will have questions, but we are unable to share any details at this time," added George Hill.

"We know Jalen has played a part in the lives of so many people. We also acknowledge the role that so many of you have played in this. As we try to navigate this devastating time in our lives, we ask that you please give us time to grieve," Jalen Hill's father concluded.

A four-star recruit, Jalen Hill redshirted and entered the Bruins basketball program in the 2017-18 season but was sidelined in his freshmen year to follow the suspension handed by the NCAA authority regarding his shoplifting scandal with both Cody Riley and LiAngelo Ball in China.

In the 2019-20 campaign, Hill had a solid season under coach Mick Cronin's leadership. Hill averaged 9.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game. Hill unexpectedly announced his retirement in 2021 due to anxiety and depression problems.

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