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In sad news breaking on Saturday afternoon, the Ames Tribune is reporting that current New Orleans Pelicans guard and former UNLV player Bryce Dejean-Jones has passed away at just 23-years-old. According to a report from Yahoo, he was shot on Friday and eventually passed due to his injuries.
Pelicans' Bryce Dejean-Jones suffered gun shot to abdomen late Friday, bled to death. Full story coming on passing of promising 23-year-old.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) May 28, 2016
Although Dejean-Jones spent time at multiple programs during his collegiate years, he did spend two years at UNLV and appeared in a total of 66 games. During his time with the Runnin' Rebels, he averaged 26.6 minutes, 11.8 points, and 4.1 rebounds per game.
Following his time with UNLV, Dejean-Jones transferred to Iowa State and then earned a spot in the NBA. He had signed a three-year contract with the New Orleans Pelicans in February and appeared in 14 games for the franchise this season. All signs pointed to him having a successful career.
Obviously, this is a heartbreaking story and the entire staff of Mid-Major Madness sends its prayers to Dejean Jones' family, friends, and loved ones. Further updates will be posted as appropriate.