Nationwide — Jayden Bailey, a 17-year-old African American high school basketball player from Lebanon, Tennessee, has sadly passed away after a years-long battle with bone cancer. Despite losing his left arm to the disease, he continued to play and inspire his teammates until the end.
Jayden, a student at Lebanon High School, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a cancer that affects the cells forming bones, when he was in his early teens. Over the years, the cancer spread to his lungs and stomach, and he underwent multiple treatments, surgeries, and rounds of chemotherapy, according to People.
Basketball remained one of Jayden’s greatest joys. After his arm was amputated in August 2025, he still played for the LHS Blue Devils. In a video shared by the school district, he said, “It’s wild to think that I shoot better now than I ever did with both arms.” His determination on and off the court made him a role model for teammates and friends.
In October 2025, Jayden entered hospice care as the disease advanced. The Lebanon community recognized his courage early on, declaring February 17, 2026, as Jayden Bailey Day. Mayor Bell, local schools, and police joined residents in celebrating his resilience, sending prayers and support to his family.
The community also rallied financially. A GoFundMe page started in 2022 raised over $28,000, while a second campaign launched in 2025 brought in more than $9,000 to support Jayden and his family during his fight.
Friends, teachers, and the community remembered him for his light, positivity, and resilience. Even as he faced immense challenges, Jayden’s spirit brought people together and inspired hope across the community.