The college basketball world is mourning the loss of SUNY Potsdam women’s basketball player Emily Smith, who had a promising career ahead but died at a very young age.
Here’s everything we know right now about the tragic incident.
How Did Emily Smith Die?
According to a police report, the incident happened on Saturday morning around 3:37 a.m near Pierrepont Avenue.
Smith was hit by a black Cadillac Escalade while she was standing on a front lawn after visiting a friend’s house. The driver fled the scene immediately after crashing.
Later, Smith was taken to a Hospital, but her injuries were so serious that she couldn’t survive. Police managed to locate the vehicle hours after the accident. Officers saw front-end damage on the SUV and immediately stopped the vehicle.
Police arrested 18-year-old Jakob D. Krise of Brasher Falls, New York. He has been charged with:
- Leaving the scene of a motor vehicle crash resulting in death
- Intoxicated driving
- Driving across prohibited zones
According to police, Krise was presented in Town of Pierrepont Court and later released under probation supervision. He is scheduled to appear in court again later this week.
How Good Was Emily Smith at SUNY Potsdam
Smith transferred from SUNY Plattsburgh to SUNY Potsdam and quickly became an important member of the team. During the 2025-26 season, she appeared in 19 games and recorded 24 steals and 24 blocks. Coaches also revealed she was expected to become one of the team’s captains next season.
Off the court, she was a business administration major and a Dean’s List student set to graduate in 2028. SUNY Potsdam head coach Brittany Cohen and other staff members delivered an emotional tribute following the news.
“I am heartbroken by the loss of our captain, Emily. She was an extraordinary young woman, beloved by her teammates, coaches, and everyone she met,” Cohen said.
“”We are heartbroken and devastated by the news of Emily’s passing. To lose such a bright soul at such a young age is a tragedy. On behalf of all Potsdam Bears, I send Emily’s family our deepest, most heartfelt condolences.” said SUNY Potsdam’s athletic director, Mark Misiak.
To honor her, a memorial space filled with flowers, notes, and basketball memorabilia has been created inside the gymnasium.
Tributes have poured online from her friends, family, and staff. The university has also decided to provide counseling services for students and staff to deal with the loss
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