Tragic Loss: Kentucky Wildcats’ Forward Ansley Almonor Killed in Hometown Shooting
In a heartbreaking incident, Ansley Almonor, a senior forward for the University of Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball team, was fatally shot in his hometown of Spring Valley, New York. The 22-year-old athlete, known for his exceptional skills on the court and his amiable personality off it, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Almonor joined the Wildcats in May 2024 as the 11th addition to head coach Mark Pope’s inaugural roster. Prior to his tenure at Kentucky, he played three seasons at Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU), where he made a significant impact. As a junior, he set an FDU single-season record with 93 made three-pointers, averaging 16.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game, earning First Team All-Northeast Conference honors.
Born on April 30, 2002, in Spring Valley, Almonor’s basketball journey began at St. Joseph Regional/Our Savior Lutheran High School, where he averaged 15.0 points and 8.0 rebounds per game as a senior. His dedication and talent led him to surpass 1,000 career points during his collegiate career, marking him as a standout player.
Off the court, Almonor was celebrated for his humility and approachability. In an interview, he expressed his openness to engaging with fans, stating, “If people reach out to me, I am not too big for anybody… I am a nice guy. If you want to talk to me, I will.”
The University of Kentucky community is devastated by the loss. Coach Mark Pope reflected on Almonor’s contributions, saying, “Ansley was a fearless competitor with great leadership qualities. His presence both on and off the court will be deeply missed.”
Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting. No further details have been released at this time. The university plans to hold a memorial service to honor Almonor’s life and legacy, with details forthcoming.
This tragic event has left a profound void in the hearts of those who
