Tributes paid to former Essex University basketball star

Tyra Whitehead, who studied at the university in Wivenhoe, had played for the university's basketball team, Essex Rebels and played professionally in Sweden for Wetterbygden Sparks.

Tyra, who was originally from Virginia, died on Wednesday.

Gametime - Tyra in her Rebels jersey (Image: University of Essex) The Essex Rebels have paid tribute to their former player on Facebook saying: “The Essex Rebels family was deeply saddened to hear of the sudden death of former player and student Tyra Marie Whitehead.

“Tyra was a force on the court and a decisive factor in us making it to our first trophy final.

“Off the court she was a joy to be around, always laughing and joking.

"She was a great player but an even better person - always lifting the spirits of those around her and caring deeply for her friends and teammates.

“Everyone in the Rebels family is devastated by her passing and our thoughts are with all her family and friends in this difficult time.

“We urge anyone within the University community affected by her death to contact our wellbeing team.”

Sad - University of Essex is saddened by the loss of its former student (Image: Credited) “Prior to making the move overseas to Sweden, Whitehead had an illustrious high school and collegiate in the US, concluding her career at San José State Spartans as one of the most accomplished players in the program’s history.

These accomplishments led to Whitehead being signed to a training camp contract with WNBA side Washington Mystics in April 2021, but Tyra wasn't used and left before the start of the season.

This subsequently led her to become a player for the Essex Rebels, where she spent her time as a well respected member of the team.

The Essex University is offering support for students with wellbeing concerns, which can be found by visiting https://tinyurl.com/yck9bs4w