Henrico County, Va. — The local basketball community is mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Jaylen Martinez, the son of Joey Rodriguez, former VCU Rams star and current Florida International University assistant coach. Jaylen passed away unexpectedly on Monday, leaving behind a promising future and a grieving family.
Jaylen, a standout on the AAU basketball circuit, had already begun to carve out a name of his own on the court. Last season, he led Liberty Middle School to a county championship, averaging an impressive 27 points per game. This fall, he was set to continue his basketball journey at Benedictine College Preparatory, a school known for developing top-tier athletic talent.
In November 2023, Jaylen stood proudly beside his father at the Siegel Center, when Joey Rodriguez’s jersey was raised to the rafters, honoring his pivotal role in VCU’s historic 2011 Final Four run. The moment was a celebration of legacy—and now, it stands as a memory of father and son united by the game they both loved.
Rodriguez, who currently coaches in Miami, posted a series of photos with Jaylen on social media Monday night but offered no public statement.
The VCU basketball family and wider Richmond sports community have shared an outpouring of condolences and support in the wake of Jaylen’s passing.
Our thoughts are with Joey Rodriguez, Jaylen’s mother, and the entire Martinez family as they navigate this unimaginable loss.
Jaylen’s talent, spirit, and love for the game will not be forgotten.