Ben Cristman Found Dead at 21

Ben Cristman, an offensive lineman who transferred from Kentucky to UNLV, tragically passed away at the age of 21, just a day before his birthday, in February. He was found in an off-campus apartment.

Reports indicate that Cristman experienced chest pain during practice the day prior to his death, leading to an EKG at the team facility.

The Clark County Coroner’s Office announced that his death was due to an irregular heartbeat, specifically cardiomyopathy and arrhythmia.

Cristman had spent two seasons at Ohio State before transferring to Kentucky. Unfortunately, he missed the 2023 season due to a knee injury but was set to play at UNLV in 2025.

UNLV’s head coach, Dan Mullen, expressed heartbreak over the loss, stating that Ben had quickly become a respected presence within the team. Mullen noted that Cristman had an immediate positive impact on the program, earning the respect and friendship of his teammates.

President Keith E. Whitfield shared his sadness regarding Cristman’s untimely passing, emphasizing that such a loss at a young age is deeply felt. He extended condolences to Cristman’s family, friends, and athletes connected to the university.

Cristman was originally from Akron, Ohio, and was a four-star recruit in high school, having played soccer at Libya High School.