The University of Nevada, Las Vegas is dealing with a profound tragedy following the sudden death of 21-year-old offensive lineman Benjamin Christman. As reported by News 3 LV, Christman was confirmed dead at his off-campus apartment yesterday. The Clark County Coroner's Office identified the student-athlete and stated that determinations regarding the cause and manner of death were still pending and could take several months.
Before his transfer to UNLV, Christman played at the University of Kentucky and was seen in 12 games last season, according to the same News 3 LV report. The details surrounding his death remain scarce, with UNLV's head coach Dan Lanning conveying the team's sorrow: "Our team’s heart is broken to hear of Ben’s passing. Since the day Ben set foot on our campus a month ago, he made the Rebels a better program. Ben was an easy choice for our Leadership Committee as he had earned the immediate respect, admiration and friendship of all his teammates. Our prayers go out to his family and all who knew him. Ben made the world a better place and he will be missed."
Coming out of Akron, Ohio, Christman was known by the nickname "Big Ben," according to a tribute on 8 News Now. He stood 6'6" and weighed 315 pounds, adding valuable experience to the Runnin' Rebels roster after his time in the SEC. Christman was also categorized as a top-100-rated offensive lineman when he entered the transfer portal. His impact on the field was anticipated to be significant, though it appears he had yet to play for UNLV.
In response to the tragedy, UNLV has activated mental health and support services for those in need, a necessity for a campus grappling with such an unanticipated loss. “UNLV Athletics was notified earlier today of the passing of a student-athlete who was a member of the football team at their off-campus residence. This is an extremely difficult day for our athletics department and the university community,” an official statement from the university articulated, which was shared by 8 News Now. The university has expressed its commitment to respecting the family's privacy during this rough period, and additional information remains limited at this juncture.
