Las Vegas, Nevada — Ben Christman, a 21-year-old offensive lineman for UNLV, was found deceased in his off-campus apartment in February, just one day shy of his birthday. His sudden passing has left the university community in mourning.
Earlier that day, Christman had experienced chest pains during practice, prompting medical staff to conduct an EKG at the athletic facility. The Clark County Coroner’s Office later revealed that Christman’s death resulted from cardiac arrhythmia and cardiomyopathy, conditions that affect heart rhythm and muscle health, respectively.
Before joining UNLV, Christman played two seasons at Ohio State and then transferred to Kentucky. He sat out the 2023 season due to a knee injury but was preparing to contribute in the upcoming 2025 season. His journey on the field was marked by dedication and resilience, qualities that left a lasting impact on his teammates.
UNLV head coach Dan Mullen expressed the profound sadness felt by the team in a statement shortly after news broke of Christman’s passing. Mullen highlighted Christman’s immediate rapport with teammates, noting how quickly he earned their respect and affection. “Ben was an easy choice for our Leadership Committee,” he said, underscoring the young player’s ability to uplift those around him.
University president Keith E. Whitfield also shared his sorrow, calling the loss of Christman an emotional blow to the university family. “There is little that can be said to lessen the pain of suddenly losing a member of our community at such a young age,” Whitfield stated. He extended heartfelt condolences to Christman’s family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time.
Christman’s roots trace back to Akron, Ohio, where he excelled in high school football at Revere High School. Widely regarded as a four-star recruit, he had garnered attention early on in his athletic career, showcasing potential that caught the eyes of major college programs.
As both friends and teammates grapple with his loss, Ben Christman is remembered not only as a promising athlete but also as a person who enriched the lives of those around him. His legacy will likely endure in the hearts of many at the university and beyond.