BROOKINGS – South Dakota State University football student athlete Nate White died Wednesday morning. He was 20 years old.
White was found unresponsive in his bed by his roommate at around 6:45 a.m.
His death is under investigation and a cause is yet to be determined, according to a press release from the Brookings Police Department.
“Jackrabbit football is a brotherhood and today we are all hurting with the shocking news of the loss of Nate White,” SDSU head coach Dan Jackson said. “Nate impacted our program with his hard work, determination and overall positive spirit. We grieve with his family and will honor his memory throughout the upcoming season.”
White, a Milwaukee, Wisconsin native, played football at the University of Wisconsin for two years before transferring to SDSU in January.
Brookings Ambulance and police units were unsuccessful in resuscitating White, according to the press release. The Brookings County Coroner pronounced White deceased and he has been transported to Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls for an autopsy.
Support has poured out from the Brookings community and beyond. SDSU President Barry Dunn said the SDSU community is deeply saddened by the news.
“While Nate had not been on campus long, he was not only beloved by his teammates and coaches, but also by faculty and those who had the opportunity to get to know him,” Dunn said. “This is certainly a sad time for our campus, community and the thousands of Jackrabbits supporters across the state and nation. Our hearts and prayers are with Nate’s family, loved ones, teammates and anyone who knew him.”
White’s former team also paid tribute.
“News of Nate White’s tragic passing has been sad and difficult to comprehend for all of the Wisconsin Badger football family.” Badger’s head coach Luke Fickell wrote on X. “We remember Nate as a friend and teammate and we stand in support of Nate’s family and loved ones.”
White was one of the top prep recruits in Wisconsin in 2022. He played as running back during spring practices at SDSU.
