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Remembering Antoine Joe: St. Thomas University Bobcats Basketball Player Passes Away at Young Age

The St. Thomas University men's basketball community is mourning the loss of one of their own, Antoine Joe. The young athlete from Miami, Florida tragically passed away on Sunday, August 20th, 2023 at the age of 22. The news of Antoine's untimely death has left his family, friends, coaches, teammates and fans absolutely devastated.'

Antoine’s Basketball Journey and Success With The Bobcats

Antoine Joe played for the St. Thomas Bobcats for three seasons from 2017 to 2020. He joined the program and redshirted his freshman year in 2016-2017. The following season as a redshirt freshman in 2017-2018, Antoine made an immediate impact as he led all newcomers with 147 total points and established himself as a rising star.

The 2018-2019 season saw increased responsibility and starts for Joe as a redshirt sophomore under new Head Coach Adrian White. Antoine thrived in the new system and continued improving his game. In his final season suiting up for the Bobcats in 2019-2020, he played in 20 games and recorded 151 total points and 21 steals - showing the consistent growth and effort that defined his career.

One of Antoine's proudest basketball moments was competing in the NAIA National Tournament during his freshman campaign. He was a pivotal part of the Bobcats 2017-2018 Sun Conference Championship team.

Antoine’s Character and Legacy

Beyond his clear talent and accolades on the court, Antoine was known as a true gentleman and kind soul. His personality made him extremely well-liked by teammates, coaches, classmates and professors.

Antoine Joe approached life and basketball with an infectious enthusiasm, quiet confidence and determination to always give maximum effort. He overcame obstacles and setbacks without complaint.

The impressions he made on those lucky enough to have known him will continue long after his tragic passing. Antoine's legacy will be the spirit and unrelenting positivity he brought to everything he did.

Though his life was far too short, his impact is immeasurable. Antoine was one-of-a-kind - an enigma who balanced his skills as an athlete with his humanitarian pursuits and magnetic personality.

Community Mourns Sudden Loss

The unfortunate death of the 22-year old student-athlete has left the entire St. Thomas community grief-stricken. The loss is devastating for all who knew Antoine.

The St. Thomas Athletics Department acknowledged Joe's passing in a Facebook post stating: "We are saddened to hear the news of the passing of former Men's Basketball Player, Antoine Joe. May he rest in peace."

Details on the circumstances and cause of his premature death are unclear at this time. An outpouring of tributes on social media makes clear just how many lives Antoine touched in his shortened life and career.

Teammates & Coaches React to Tragic News

Antoine's sudden death came as a complete shock to teammates and coaches alike. He had just completed his basketball career with the team in 2020 and was on track to graduate from St. Thomas University in the near future.

Those who played alongside Joe and knew him best say he was an easygoing, kind and lighthearted presence in the locker room. Teammates are Banding together to support each other and Joe’s family during this extremely difficult time.

Coach Adrian White who worked closely with Antoine for two seasons offered this remembrance:

“Antoine approached every single day with an optimism and selflessness that lifted up everyone around him. He was the heart and soul of our team and his absence leaves a void that simply cannot be filled. Our program will forever carry his spirit with us. We extend our deepest condolences to his family.”

Lasting Memory of Talented Student Athlete

While the St. Thomas community continues to process this immense loss, they will hold onto memories of Antoine's vibrant spirit, tenacity and sportsmanship.

Antoine Joe represented the very best of Bobcat Athletics. He pursued excellence with passion, upheld the highest principles and provided compassion to everyone he encountered.

Although his bright light dimmed far too soon, Antoine's impact will shine on indefinitely thanks to the indelible mark he made at St. Thomas University and in the lives of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and always remembered.

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