Basketball Ref Who 'Died' On The Court Reunites With The Women Who Saved His Life

December 26, 2025

A high school basketball game in Arkansas turned into a life-or-death emergency when referee Nosakhere Holcomb suffered a sudden cardiac arrest on the court — and just three weeks later, he was able to reunite with the women whose quick actions saved his life.

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Holcomb was officiating a game at Cabot High School when he collapsed during the second quarter, sending players, coaches, and fans into shock.

“They saw me die… during a basketball game,” Holcomb later said.

Cabot High School’s athletic trainer was the first person to reach him. Moments later, two basketball moms rushed down from the stands and immediately began helping with chest compressions. Another ran to grab an automated external defibrillator (AED).

"I'm so happy that we were at the right place at the right time and that we were able to get his heart back going again, and that he was able to spend Thanksgiving and Christmas with his family."

Three weeks after the incident, Holcomb was reunited with the women who saved him.

The emotional meeting was filled with gratitude, hugs, and tears as he thanked them for giving him a second chance at life.