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Basketball Community Mourns The Passing Of GCU’s Oscar Frayer

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The local basketball community is saddened and mourning the loss of GCU forward Oscar Frayer, who tragically passed away in a car accident on Tuesday in Lodi, California. 

Frayer’s sister and friend also died in the accident. Just last Saturday, the Lopes 23-year-old senior was on the floor for the program’s first-ever NCAA Tournament game in school history.

Originally from Oakland, California, Frayer was a former All-WAC Defensive Team selection and a starter. He was an integral part of GCU’s rise and success over the last few seasons, and graduated with a degree in communications. 

“We love O,” said GCU head coach Bryce Drew in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our team with his vibrant, energetic personality. I cannot put into words the hurt and sadness we all feel, but we know he is in heaven and that gives us great joy to know we will be together again.”

“On the court, Oscar was known as the “High Flyer” and will be remembered for his soaring dunks, tenacious defense and game-changing blocked shots,” a University statement read. “Off the court, he will be remembered for his infectious smile, energetic spirit and caring soul that made him one of the most well-liked students on campus.”

Thoughts are with Frayer’s family, teammates, and loved ones during this time. Many players from around GCU, Arizona, and in the basketball community have shared their memories, thoughts, and prayers over the last few days.

Grand Canyon University Men’s Basketball

Casey Benson, Former GCU Guard

Gabe McGlothan, GCU Forward

McGlothan also had this to say in an emotional Instagram post to honor his teammate:

“To Oscar Frayer…
O… I can’t even gather words. I keep thinking you are gonna come thru that door and say “don’t trip! what’s happenin partna”. Just can’t believe you’re really gone…The relationship we built over this past year is something I thought we’d never share, but most certainly something I won’t forget. The memories that you have created for everyone on this team are ones that we will all carry so close to our hearts. The impact you had… I don’t even think you realized. The way you spoke; The way you embodied brotherhood, family; and the way you chased the faith; it had shined into everyone’s heart. This season was a success, yes, but what many don’t know are about the victories that truly mattered behind closed doors.

Winning both games against Dixie State and having you run into the locker room and tell everyone that you wanted to lead “The Lord’s Prayer” wrote smiles on the many faces in that room. As many knew the light that you were shining, but few understood the seed that was being watered by the Lord.

This next one meant the world to me. It was after chapel and Coach Walk had just got done speaking. Food was right after, but although it had already been blessed during the prayer at the end. You asked “so we aren’t blessing the food?” I stood there with you and laughed, but we grabbed each other and blessed it together. It brought me so much joy seeing you invite Him.

You carved your name in history because of what you have done, and in the hearts of many because of who you are.

Most importantly, you have etched yourself into eternity as the biggest accomplishment in life, you achieved. 11 days prior (March 12, 2021), when you surrendered your life to Christ in the team room before our semifinal game against Seattle.

You lived a full life and achieved a lot. I’m just blessed to have watched you seek the Father and build a relationship with you along the way. I told you after, that you just accomplished the best thing in your life, you just gave that big infectious smile everyone knows so well. Can’t wait to celebrate up there with you one day O.

I love you always brother. Fly high, high flyer. It’s eternal #OF4”

 

Former Arizona State forward Zylan Cheatham

GCU Head Coach Bryce Drew

Kyree Walker (Frayer’s HS teammate, former Hillcrest Prep Guard)

Frank Knight, Moreau Catholic Head Coach (Frayer’s HS Coach)

 

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