Record-setting Gophers rebounder has died

Taiye Bello, a record-setting rebounder for the Gophers women’s basketball team, has died, according to a GoFundMe.com page set up by her family. She was 26.

A cause of death was not announced.

“Taiye was a beautiful daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and creative. She will be greatly missed by all who experienced her light,” the family said on the GoFundMe page. “We ask that you respect our privacy in this time of mourning.”

Bello played forward for the Gophers from 2016-2020. In her junior year, she averaged 11.9 rebounds per game, fifth-best in program history.

Bello had three of the best offensive rebound games in Gophers’ history and is tied with Amanda Zahui B for the program record with 12 against Rutgers in 2018. Her 22 total rebounds in that game rank fifth all-time, and her 380 total rebounds in 2018-19 rank fourth.

“We are saddened to hear about the passing of Gopher Women’s Basketball alumna, Taiye Bello,” the Gophers posted on their x.com account. “Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends during this difficult time.”