UK releases statements on passing of Ben Jordan

Ben Jordan, who was a member of both the Kentucky baseball (2018-2021) and basketball (2019-20) teams, passed away on Monday. He was 22 years old. Details of his passing have not been released.

On the diamond, Jordan enrolled at UK as a 6-9 pitcher but redshirted as a freshman in 2018 as he recovered from Tommy John surgery. As a redshirt freshman in 2019, he appeared in 10 games and pitched 8.2 innings.

A high school standout in baseball and basketball at West Carter High School in Olive Hill (KY), Jordan joined the men’s basketball team last season as an extra body in practice. He helped aid in the development of Nick Richards, who became an all-conference player and NBA Draft pick that season.

UK Athletics has released statements from men’s basketball head coach John Calipari, baseball head coach Nick Mingione, and UK athletics director Mitch Barnhart on Jordan’s passing.

John Calipari

“Our hearts are broken today. We learned early this morning that we have lost Ben Jordan. It is difficult for me to express and to put into words what a tragedy it is to lose a young person too early. Ben impacted our team last season in so many ways with his kind heart, his big smile and his wonderful personality. He cared so deeply about this place and it meant so much to him to be a part of this team. We are grieving today over the loss of a teammate and a brother, but Ben will not be forgotten. We ask that everyone keep Ben and his family in their thoughts and prayers during this time as we try to find a way forward. Ben, may you rest in peace.”

Mitch Barnhart

“It is with profound grief that we learn of the loss of Ben Jordan. Ben loved and cherished being a Wildcat. He had a servant’s heart and answered the call whenever asked, including putting his promising baseball career on hold to help the basketball team when it needed him. I remember meeting Ben on his official visit to our campus and being so impressed with his passion for this state and the University of Kentucky. He will be missed immensely. Our prayers and condolences are with Ben’s family and friends.”

Nick Mingione

“We are devastated to learn of Ben Jordan’s tragic passing last night. There are no words to express the shock and heartache our team is feeling with the loss of Ben. He was an absolute joy to coach and be around. His coaches, teammates and brothers loved him dearly. His smile, his sense of humor and love for this university will never be forgotten. He will be missed beyond measure. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ben’s family and we will support them in any way we can during this extremely difficult time. We are all hurting and will find a way carry Ben’s legacy forward and keep him in our heart always.”

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jordan’s family.