A basketball star who turned out for Hamilton Southeastern and later for University of Indianapolis and St Francis University of Fort Wayne, Aaron Etherington, has tragically died.
Etherington, 25, of Noblesville, suddenly and unexpectedly died on Tuesday, January 13, 2025, an obituary shared by the Hartley Funeral Homes confirmed. No cause of death was listed.
Aaron was the brother of Austin and Alex Etherington, both of whom played college basketball in the state. Austin played at Indiana and Butler while Alex played at Indiana State and Indianapolis.
Aaron, meanwhile, started his athletic prowess at Hamilton Southeastern. He was named to the 2018 IndyStar Boys Basketball Superteam after averaging 13 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game as a senior. Etherington scored 18 points and grabbed four rebounds in the sectional championship game vs No.1 ranked Carmel. Etherington was ranked as the no.9 top recruit out of the state of Indiana by PrepHoops.
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He joined the University of Toledo before playing for UIndy and St. Francis in Fort Wayne. Etherington made a mark wherever he went with his all-rounded game guaranteeing points, assists and rebounds in droves.
Tragically, Aaron Thomas Etherington, born December 13, 1999 to Brett and Missy Smith Etherington, passed away on January 13, 2025, at the age of 25. News of his death shocked most, with many singing his praises on social media. Aaron was not just a guy on the basketball court, he was a great friend and companion, according to several tribute posts shared on social media.
“Aaron, even though I won’t get the chance to tell you again in this life time. I love you, and thank you for being my brother,” said high school mate and friend Hunter Killion, as he recounted the good times they had together for ten plus years. “The memories we share are ones I will hold in my heart for the rest of my time here on earth. Rest in peace brother – I’ll see you in the stars,”
St. Francis University also sent out one of the first official reactions to Aaron’s death.
“We are heartbroken to hear of the passing of Aaron Etherington. Aaron was a great friend, teammate, and person. He will be missed by so many,” they wrote.
We are heartbroken to hear of the passing of Aaron Etherington. Aaron was a great friend, teammate, and person. He will be missed by so many and we were fortunate to have him at USF. Please keep the Etherington family in your prayers.https://t.co/VV5lHSTgEk pic.twitter.com/PmtouYf8ha
— USF Men’s Basketball (@usf_mbkb) January 15, 2025