USC Aiken Men's Basketball Standout Javonte Clanton Killed in Car Accident

The USC Aiken men’s basketball team and the entire USC Aiken community suffered a tragic loss early Wednesday morning after learning that one of its own – junior Javonte Clanton – was killed in a car accident in West Virginia.

Just hours after USC Aiken’s first appearance in the NCAA Division II Sweet Sixteen, Clanton left for his hometown of Columbus, Ohio. He reportedly fell asleep at the wheel.

“Our students, faculty, and staff are in mourning,” said Tom Hallman, chancellor. “It’s a dark day on the USC Aiken campus, and our heartfelt thoughts are with Javonte’s family, friends, and fellow teammates.”

Clanton, a rising senior guard, was a transfer from Blinn Junior College. A communications major, Clanton was the son of Sharonda Clanton. His guardian and grandmother was Brenda Clanton.

The sad news was passed along to the USC Aiken men’s basketball team on Wednesday morning shortly after Head Coach Vince Alexander and his coaching staff had learned of the tragedy.

Funeral arrangements are not yet set. A second announcement will be sent with arrangements when available.

STATEMENT FROM USC AIKEN HEAD COACH VINCE ALEXANDER

“Right now we are still in a state of disbelief over this incredible loss. Javonte was a very talented basketball player and he was beloved by all his teammates. Most importantly, Javonte was an outstanding individual and student. Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Javonte. This is a tremendous loss to the USC Aiken community.”

STATEMENT FROM THE PEACH BELT CONFERENCE

The Peach Belt Conference and its 11 member institutions join the USC Aiken family in mourning the tragic loss of Javonte Clanton. While we all compete on the court, the 2,000 student-athletes, coaches and staff of PBC athletics are a family and a loss by one is felt by all. Commissioner David Brunk and the rest of the conference office staff join USCA and the rest of the PBC membership in offering our most sincere condolences and prayers to the Clanton family and Javonte's teammates and coaches at USC Aiken.