SENATOBIA – Northwest Mississippi Community College is mourning the loss of former men's basketball student-athlete Christian Compton, who passed away on Sunday afternoon, May 31, 2020, at the age of 23.

"I am saddened to hear about the loss of Christian," Northwest head basketball coach Shane Oakley said. "He was a terrific young man who always had a smile on his face. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends."

Compton was currently enrolled as a student at Mississippi State University, but spent two seasons with the Rangers from 2015-17. As a guard, Compton acquired most of his playing time during his redshirt freshman season in 2016-17, seeing action in 12 games with 54 minutes played.

"Christian was a great kid to coach and have in our program at Northwest", former head basketball coach Bubba Skelton said, in a statement. "He has a special place in the hearts of my family with him being my son Trey's friend and former roommate. Our thoughts and prayers are with Christian's family during this extremely difficult time."

A product of Marshall Academy and a native of Olive Branch, Compton averaged 0.9 rebounds per game, including a career-high of five boards in a victory against Tennessee Prep on Nov. 17, 2016. In a previous matchup against Tennessee Prep earlier that month, he totaled two assists and two steals, both respective career highs.

Prior to Northwest, Compton helped Marshall Academy to a 37-5 overall record as a senior, earning the Patriots state and MAIS overall championships. He earned numerous accolades, including All-MAIS First Team, all-district and all-conference honors. Compton was also a kicker on the Marshall Academy football team.

Memorial arrangements can be found here.