ALTO, Texas — Editor's Note: The above video was published in May 2023.
Feb. 7, 2024 marks two years since a 15-year-old East Texas basketball player passed away during a home game.
Alto High School athlete Devonte Mumphrey collapsed and died during a game on Feb. 7, 2022.
In a Facebook post shared Wednesday, Alto ISD wrote, "Two years later. We miss you, DeVonte," along with an image of Mumphrey featuring his jersey number 13.
Following his passing, the community came together in multiple ways, including vigils and efforts, creating a scholarship fund in his honor and renaming the court to memorialize Mumphrey. As a part of fundraising, the school's booster club sold bracelets that said "Forever 13" and t-shirts as well.
About three months after he passed away, the Alto High basketball court, where Mumphrey spent the most of his time, was renamed the Devonte Mumphrey Memorial Court.
Those who knew him described Mumphrey as someone who went above and beyond in every aspect of his life -- an incredible athlete and an amazing role model off the court.
“He was a fabulous student, born leader, and a humble spirit. He was definitely someone who showed the highest character and was a model student inside and outside the campus,” Shanequa Redd-Dorsey, Alto High School principal, said.
Mumphrey, who was a lifelong resident of Alto, was known as a teen that excelled at every sport, including basketball, track and football. He also loved to rap and he created his own studio in his bedroom closet, according to his obituary.