Basketball coach, 44, tragically dies in jet ski accident after ‘crashing into rocks’

A top Russian basketball coach has died after a reported accident while riding a jet ski. Eduard Sandler, who coached PBC Dynamo Vladivostok, passed away at the age of 44. Russian basketball coach Eduard Sandler has died at 44-years-old Credit: Instagram @sandleredik He was involved in an accident on a jet ski according to reports Credit: Instagram @sandleredik The club confirmed the news via an emotional statement. It said: “Eduard Mikhailovich Sandler has passed away. … This is an irreplaceable loss for the entire sports community of the Primorsky Krai region and for Russian basketball. Sign up for the Sport newsletter Thank you! “Eduard Mikhailovich dedicated his life to the development of the sport, the nurturing of players, and the building of a strong system. “Thanks to his energy, character, and commitment, Dynamo achieved great success and significant victories. All who knew Eduard Mikhailovich will remember him as a man who loved basketball and the Primorsky Krai region with all his heart. “We extend our deepest condolences to his family, loved ones, friends, colleagues, and all who share this profound loss.” The fatal accident reportedly happened at a harbour near Burny business centre, Vladivostok. According to Russian reports, he suffered severe injuries after colliding with some rocks. And despite the emergency services being called, Sandler was pronounced dead before an ambulance arrived. Most read in Sport His club, Dynamo Vladivostok, put out an emotional statement after the sad event Credit: Instagram @sandleredik They commended his contributions to the team’s “great success” Credit: Instagram @sandleredik Investigators and forensic experts have visited the scene of the crash and an investigation is underway. Sandler had been the head coach of Dynamo Vladivostok since 2023. He led the team to gold medals in the Super League championship in 2024. Comment now