HONOLULU -- On Wednesday, December 26, Hawai`i Pacific men's basketball player Emil Isovic passed away at Straub Medical Center with his family, friends and teammates by his side. He is survived by his parents Nedzad and Sanela and his brother Dino.

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to Emil’s family and to all of you," Director of Athletics Sam Moku said in a statement addressed to the students and faculty at Hawai`i Pacific University. "There aren’t words to express how much Emil will be missed. May we find comfort in one another’s company and solace in the memories of a young man who made an unforgettable impression on our hearts."

Isovic was from Ahlen, Sweden and was in his second year at Hawai`i Pacific where he was a guard on the men's basketball team, while he pursued a degree in communications.

"We are deeply saddened by this news," Pacific West Conference Commissioner Bob Hogue said. "We join Hawai`i Pacific University, the PacWest, and the entire college basketball community in praying for Emil's family and his memory during this difficult time."

A student emergency fund has been set up to support the Isovic family during this difficult time. For those who would like to contribute, the link is provided here.