Central Connecticut State mourns death of former men’s basketball star Tyler Kohl

Central Connecticut State University is mourning the death of former men’s basketball player Tyler Kohl, who died Sunday.

Kohl, a native of Allentown, Penn., spent two seasons with the Blue Devils (2017-19), playing under former coach Donyell Marshall. He made an immediate impact on the court, becoming the first player in school history to reach the 1,000-point mark in just two seasons (1,008) and was named to the All-Northeast Conference second team in both of his years at Central. The reason for the death of the 27-year-old was not disclosed.

“We are saddened to learn of the passing of Tyler,” CCSU athletic director Tom Pincince said in a statement. “We extend our condolences and our deepest sympathies to Tyler’s family and friends during this trying time. He was a valuable member of our men’s basketball program and CCSU community during his time on our campus and he will always be a member of the Blue Devils family.”

Marshall expressed his sadness on Kohl’s passing in a tweet on Monday.

“You are more than a coach. You are also a father figure to some,” the tweet read. “Today is a tough day. As I have lost a coaching son. Tyler you will be missed. RIP young fella.”

A 6-foot-5 guard-forward, Kohl transferred to Central after spending the first two seasons of his college career at Mineral Area College in Missouri.

A GoFundMe page was set up for Kohl’s funeral services, which will be held in Easton, Pa.

“We regret to inform you of the sudden loss of our dear son, grandson, brother and father, Tyler Anthony Kohl on February 12, 2023. Raised in Easton, PA, Tyler was best known for his love of family and love for basketball,” a statement on the page read. “He played the sport with passion, intensity, and pride.”