Iowa State community remembers Nick Bassett, who died at age 29: 'Thank you for touching our hearts'
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The Cyclone community collectively grieved this week as it became known that inspirational Iowa State super fan Nick Bassett was entering his final days.
Bassett, who died Thursday, was featured on ESPN's "College GameDay" broadcast before last year's Cy-Hawk football game after his story of Iowa State fandom grew.
Bassett was diagnosed with scoliosis at a young age, and then in May of 2021, had both his legs amputated. Following his surgery, Bassett vowed to return to Jack Trice Stadium — where he held season tickets since 2012 — for the 2021 season-opener against Northern Iowa. From there, he and Cyclone head coach Matt Campbell became friends, and Campbell even invited Bassett and his family to an Iowa State football practice. Bassett also spoke to the Cyclone football team before giving a pump-up speech on ESPN's "College GameDay."
Here are those tributes
We are sad to share the news that Nick Bassett @NicholasBasset3 has passed away. Nick was a former Boone A&M FFA member and 2011 graduate of @BooneToreadors. Nick was known by many across @iowaffa for his musical talents in the FFA Idol Talent Show. Thoughts and prayers! pic.twitter.com/vlhoL39jb5
— Boone A&M FFA (@bamffa) January 28, 2022
From my very first spirit walk, to my very last, all I can see is that wide smile as you cheered us on. Your selflessness, care, and strength will leave its mark on me forever. Rest easy @NicholasBasset3 .
— Mike Warren (@M_Warren4) January 26, 2022
20 years ago, we met a young boy named Nick Bassett.
He had the biggest personality...the greatest positive attitude...and we'll always remember the times we got to share with Nick.
We're sending you so much love Nick. Thank you for touching our hearts.— STAR 102.5 (@STAR1025) January 27, 2022
@KXnOMorningRush
Nick Bassett: You won't find a bigger fan... A bigger fan of the Cyclones, KXNO, etc. But most importantly, a bigger fan of... LIFE. We could all learn a lot from Nick. I'm so glad he got to live out one of his dreams when he was featured on ESPN's Game Day. pic.twitter.com/E2AZciYZuD— T.Y.S.O. (@KathyMathiesen) January 27, 2022
To Nick and his entire family! Thank you for allowing me to meet an amazing individual! The joy he had every time I was able to speak to him was wonderful! I was proud that I was able to keep the promise I made him last time we spoke! He is an inspiration to us all! @AnnBassett61
— GC4🐺 (@george_conditt) January 26, 2022
Getting to meet Nick was a special moment. You could feel his energy and passion with just one conversation. And his outlook on life is something I will never forget. A true inspiration to so many. Praying for his family and loved ones. Rest In Peace my friend. https://t.co/Q3gt8HWZeL
— Tyrese Haliburton (@TyHaliburton22) January 26, 2022
I’m devastated. Nick, you will always be my inspiration https://t.co/pZKbrknFFQ pic.twitter.com/y3OoGNorAY
— Cory Morrissey (@CoryJMorrissey) January 26, 2022
Rest easy, Nick. I hope you cyclones make a run this year. #CyclONEnation https://t.co/HEY8hZ7Ywj
— Mike Schoemer (@Schoemer) January 28, 2022
🙏 to his family forever #nickstrong https://t.co/RlbcHcjJaq
— Anna K. (@Ay_em_kay) January 28, 2022
Forever a legend and an inspiration 💛❤️ https://t.co/mptmkm87GL
— Cyclone Larry (@CycloneLarry69) January 28, 2022
Read more about Iowa State fan Nick Bassett
Adam Hensley is a digital producer with the USA Today Network. You can follow him on Twitter @A_Hens83 or reach him at ahensley@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa State community mourns super fan Nick Bassett's death