'Gentle spirit': North Carolina Central basketball player dies at 22

Sunday, May 7, 2023

North Carolina Central basketball player dies at 22

Devin Butts, a member of the NCCU basketball team, was on track to graduate with a bachelor's degree in Behavioral and Social Sciences this summer. He died at 22, the university said.

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- North Carolina Central University basketball player Devin Butts died Friday, the university announced. He was 22.

"We are deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of Devin. This is a devastating tragedy for our team, fans, and the entire NCCU community," said NCCU men's basketball head coach LeVelle Moton. "Devin will always be remembered as an incredible teammate that had an infectious smile at all times. Our heartfelt condolences are with his family and those who were blessed to know him."

Butts, who was a regular at Rivals Barbershop in Durham, will be missed by Damien Jones, who said he had a bright future.

"He had dreams of going pro," Jones said. "Very athletic. Very intellectual. He was pretty smart, fun to be around. He was a real great person to be around, good energy."

Butts' sister Nasha Colson released a statement Saturday saying:

"My baby brother was the most gentle spirit I have ever encountered. His smile lit the room up."

The 6-5 forward, a native of Macon, Georgia, averaged 5.4 points in 17 appearances this past season for the Eagles, including a 15-point performance on five made 3-pointers in the team's MEAC Championship quarterfinals victory over Delaware State on March 8. He had a season-high 16 points on Jan. 3 against Toccoa Falls.