Prayers Pouring In After College Basketball Coach Dies In Car Accident

Earlier this week, a six-vehicle crash in Calhoun County, South Carolina, resulted in two lives being lost. 

It was reported that a Chevrolet heading westbound went off the road and crashed right into a GMC SUV in eastbound traffic. Four other eastbound vehicles were hit during this accident. Both the Chevrolet driver, 34-year-old Daniel Waln, and driver of the GMC, 61-year-old Sherry Short, were killed in this crash. 

Waln, an assistant college basketball coach, was getting ready for his first full season with Saint Leo's program. He joined the staff during the 2024-25 season.

"Prior to Santa Fe, Waln severed at the Recruiting Coordinator and Assistant Coach for Coastal Carolina University's men's basketball program, where he specialized in player development, game planning, and opponent scouting. His leadership in skill development for post players and his effectiveness as a lead recruiter have contributed significantly to the team's success. Waln also managed recruiting visits, oversaw social media, and coordinated community service initiatives, demonstrating his versatility on and off the court," Waln's bio states. 

"Waln’s division II experience includes stops at Catwaba College, West Viriginia Wesleyan College, and Lees-McRae College. At Catawba he served as Associate Head Coach and Recruiting Coordinator, where he led efforts that resulted in four NCAA Tournament appearances and three South Atlantic Conference Championships. His recruiting acumen brought in two Player of the Year honorees and multiple All-League performers, while his offensive game planning and leadership elevated the program to new heights."