Brother of former UW-Whitewater standout Chris Davis says he passed away unexpectedly from a heart condition

By: Adam Rife X

Posted: Sep 1, 2024 11:14 AM CST

NOW: Brother of former UW-Whitewater standout Chris Davis says he passed away unexpectedly from a heart condition

WHITEWATER, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The UW-Whitewater community is mourning the loss of a former NCAA DIII Basketball Champion.

In a post, the UW-Whitewater Men's Basketball team confirmed the passing of Chris Davis, who was the only National Player of the Year in the program's history.

Chris Davis's brother confirmed Chris passed away from a heart condition he did not know about during his playing career.

Reggie Davis called Chris his big little brother.

Reggie Davis said, "He was a great man who gave his all to the youth."

Chris Davis led the Warhawks to the 2012 DIII national championship, just one piece of a career filled with personal and team accomplishments.

He excelled in both basketball and football.

Athletic director Ryan Callahan said Davis was one of the best to ever wear a Whitewater uniform.

"Everything he did, whether it was his leadership, his ability, he was one of those guys people just gravitated towards."

When his playing career ended, Chris quickly and easily transitioned into coaching and mentoring a new generation of young people that looked up to him.

Davis said, "He did it for the love of it. Not to get known or to get famous. He did it because he wanted to."

Most recently, Chris Davis was serving as the first ever varsity head basketball coach at Sun Prairie West High School.

Reggie Davis said, "It's hard that he's gone. It's going to be difficult."

He added, "He touched so many people's lives. A lot of people thank him for what he has done for them and by showing their support during this difficult time. He was a great man who gave his all to the youth. And he wanted to see them succeed."

In a statement to CBS 58 News, Athletic Director Ryan Callahan said:

"Warhawk nation lost one of the best to ever put on a Warhawk uniform. He was a special player and a great person. He was a national champ and division three player of the year. Chris stayed connected to the program and would always attend the alumni events with his son. His story is a special one and we are grateful that we were able to be part of it. Chris continued to give back to the community and the game he loved after he left Whitewater. Our hearts to go out to everyone close to Chris, especially his son."