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Houston’s journey in the 2024 NCAA Tournament is fueled by more than just a quest for victory; it carries with it a profound sense of purpose and remembrance. An emblem on the right shoulder of their jerseys bears the number 32, a poignant tribute to a fallen teammate, Reggie Chaney, whose memory continues to inspire and uplift the Cougars.
The significance of this patch has been palpable throughout the season, serving as a guiding light for Houston as they navigated their way to the prestigious No. 1 seed in the South Region. In a pivotal second-round matchup against Texas A&M, the Cougars found themselves pushed to their limits, clinging to a hard-fought 100-95 overtime victory. It was a moment that resonated deeply with the team, as guard Jamal Shead reflected on the indomitable spirit of their fallen comrade, Reggie Chaney.
“Coach, during halftime, was talking about, ‘It’s going to be a war, and it’s going to hurt, and what would [No.] 32 do?’ Reggie Chaney would have fought his a— off in a game like this. We were built for this, and I just miss my dog,” Shead remarked, encapsulating the emotional weight behind each game.
The contrasting fortunes of Houston’s first weekend in March Madness encapsulated the rollercoaster of emotions that defined their journey. From a commanding victory over Longwood to a tense showdown with Texas A&M, the Cougars experienced the full spectrum of competitive intensity. As they now prepare to face Duke in the Sweet 16, the presence of the No. 32 patch serves as a constant reminder of the enduring legacy of Reggie Chaney and the unwavering resilience of the team.
But who was Reggie Chaney, and what led to his untimely passing? Chaney, a former Houston player, tragically passed away in August of 2023 due to fentanyl toxicity. A key figure during his three seasons with the Cougars, Chaney played an integral role in the team’s journey to the Final Four in 2021. His sudden departure sent shockwaves through the basketball community, leaving behind cherished memories and a profound sense of loss.
Houston head coach Kelvin Sampson, while cautious of stirring painful emotions, has used Chaney’s memory as a source of motivation and inspiration for his team. Ahead of their clash with Texas A&M, Sampson issued a poignant challenge to his players, urging them to embody Chaney’s relentless spirit on the court.
“We took that to heart,” shared guard Ramon Walker, reflecting on the emotional resonance of Sampson’s message. “And every single player on this roster took that to heart. We didn’t quit. Even with four starters out, we didn’t quit. And Reggie was with us that game … Very emotional. Reggie was with us that game.”
Reggie Chaney’s legacy lives on in the hearts of his teammates and coaches, and the No. 32 patch serves as a tangible symbol of his enduring impact on the Houston basketball program. As the Cougars continue their pursuit of glory in the NCAA Tournament, they do so with a sense of purpose and determination fueled by the memory of a beloved teammate gone too soon.