Nate White
Nate White From Nate White's Instagram

Nate White's unexpected death in June 2025 stunned the college football world. As tributes pour in, many are revisiting his path from Milwaukee to Wisconsin and finally South Dakota State. The 20-year-old athlete had recently transferred to South Dakota State University, hoping to revive his playing career and make an impact in the 2025 season. His untimely death has shocked the college football community, leaving many to ask who he was and why his story matters.

Quick Facts About Nate White

  • Full Name: Nate White
  • Age at Death: 20
  • Hometown: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
  • High School: Rufus King High School
  • College Teams: Wisconsin Badgers (2023–2024), South Dakota State (2025)
  • Date of Death: 25 June 2025
  • Location of Death: Brookings, South Dakota
  • Cause of Death: Not officially disclosed

Early Life and High School Career

White was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He made headlines at Rufus King High School, where he developed into a four-star recruit and became the top-ranked football player in Wisconsin's 2023 class. Known for his speed and agility, he excelled as a running back and attracted attention from major college programmes.

His commitment to the University of Wisconsin–Madison was seen as a win for the Badgers, who were undergoing a period of transition under new coach Luke Fickell. White's high school legacy established him as a local hero and a symbol of future success.

College Football Journey: Wisconsin to SDSU

White's first year at Wisconsin was a redshirt season. During this time, he trained with the team but did not see game action, opting to learn from experienced players ahead of him on the depth chart. By 2024, he had switched positions to wide receiver in an attempt to find more playing time. This change was short-lived.

In January 2025, White transferred to South Dakota State University, where he planned to return to his original role as running back. Coaches at SDSU spoke highly of his determination, professionalism and eagerness to contribute to their programme.

Tragedy in Brookings

On the morning of 25 June 2025, White was found deceased in Brookings. He was just 20 years old. As reported by Sioux Falls Live, 'Nate White, a running back who transferred to South Dakota State in January, died late Tuesday/early Wednesday in Brookings. He was 21'. Authorities and the university have not released an official cause of death at this time. Early reports mistakenly cited his age as 21, but both Wisconsin and SDSU have confirmed he was 20.

Emotional Tributes Across Two Universities

The loss of White prompted heartfelt responses from both South Dakota State University and the University of Wisconsin. As reported by WMTV, Wisconsin coach Luke Fickell said: 'News of Nate White's tragic passing has been sad and difficult to comprehend for all of the Wisconsin Badger Football family. We remember Nate as a friend and teammate and we stand in support of Nate's family and loved ones'.

SDSU head coach Dan Jackson also called White's death 'deeply heartbreaking' and stated that the team would honour his memory throughout the season.

More Than a Football Story

White's death sheds light on the pressures and challenges faced by young athletes navigating transfers, positional changes and the demands of elite college sports. While details remain limited, his story reignites discussion around mental health support and well-being in American college football.

His passing is not just a sports tragedy but a reminder of the fragile balance between ambition and the personal toll it may carry.

Honouring Nate White's Legacy

Though his life and career were cut short, White's legacy endures in the lives he touched on and off the field. As two football communities mourn, the call grows louder to support and protect student-athletes both physically and emotionally.

Writer's pick