Steve Toyloy - a former University of Cincinnati basketball player who went on to have a successful international career - has tragically died at the age of 37.
The heartbreaking news was confirmed by the school in an announcement shared on social media on Friday (February 23)
“Cincinnati basketball mourns the loss of Steve Toyloy, a Bearcat from 2008 to 2010. Our thoughts are with Steve’s family, teammates, and all who knew him,” the school posted.
No cause of death has been disclosed as of this writing.
A Career That Spanned the Globe
Toyloy, a 6-foot-8 center from West Palm Beach, Florida, began his collegiate basketball journey at Miami Dade College before transferring to Cincinnati in 2008. During his two seasons with the Bearcats, he appeared in 67 games, starting 29, and averaged 3.6 points and 3.5 rebounds per game.
While not a prolific scorer, Toyloy was known for his rebounding and physical presence on the court.
He played under then-head coach Mick Cronin and even shared the court with future NBA player Lance Stephenson.
Following his time in Cincinnati, Toyloy played professionally in Turkey, Brazil, Uruguay, and Malaysia.
In 2019, he won Finals MVP in Malaysia’s MPL, helping Farmcochem secure back-to-back championships. He continued to compete internationally, signing with UCSI Rising Star as recently as 2023.
Tributes Pour In
Many former teammates and basketball figures have expressed their condolences.
“RIP Steve Toyloy,” Cincinnati alum Alex Meacham wrote on X.
“One ours! Please show your respect,” former NBA player and Cincinnati alum Corie Blount posted.
Brazil’s NBB league, where Toyloy once played, also shared a message: “We offer our condolences to friends and family.”
Toyloy’s legacy as a competitor and teammate is being remembered by those who knew him both on and off the court. Further details regarding his passing have not yet been made public.
Our thoughts go out to Toyloy's family and loved ones at this time.