Mercer University men’s soccer player Baba Agbaje died suddenly Monday night after collapsing on a field during a pickup game earlier that day.
He was only 21 years old.
According to reports, Agbaje collapsed on a field at the Outdoor Recreation Complex and went into cardiac arrest. He reportedly died in the hospital at 7:48 p.m.
“We’re heartbroken over Baba’s passing, and our hearts go out to his family and loved ones,” men’s soccer head coach Brad Ruzzo said.
“He was an incredible person who embodied what it means to be a Mercer Bear. Everyone who knew Baba loved him, and he was a blessing to coach. He will be greatly missed.”
From Mercer Athletics:
“Baba has been a valued member of the Mercer student-athlete community over the last four years,” said Athletic Director Jim Cole. “His coaches and teammates are obviously hurting, and we are focused on providing support to the family and to the team. The entire Mercer family is in mourning tonight. This hurts, but we will lean on each other in the coming days.”
Baba joined the men’s soccer program with his brother, Salam, in the 2019 season. He made four starts in 18 appearances for the team. He recorded an assist in his first-ever start against Winthrop in September 2021. Baba was named to the Southern Conference Academic Honor Roll in the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons.
Prior to coming to Mercer, Baba helped lead McIntosh HS to the 2017 and 2019 GHSA 5A State Championships and was named the 2019 Fayette County Boy’s Co-Player of the Year by Fayette County News.
“Our hearts go out to the Agbaje family on their tragic loss and ask the Mercer family to keep them in their thoughts and prayers,” said Mercer President William D. Underwood. “Baba was an outstanding student, having been named to the Southern Conference Academic Honor Roll, and was a valued teammate to other members of the soccer team. Words cannot convey the extent of our sadness over Baba’s passing.”
