Guillaume Hoareau suffered a cardiac arrest in the men’s inter-insular at Fort Regent on Saturday and died in hospital a short time later.

The match was abandoned and spectators were asked to leave.

The Jersey Basketball Association said Mr Hoareau had been “fit” and “healthy” and was not known to have any underlying health problems. 

In a statement, which the JBA said it had shared with the permission of Mr Hoareau’s family, Paul Milbank, the association’s president, said: “The loss of Guillaume is a terrible shock to us all. 

“G was a pivotal part of our basketball community. He was an inspiration and mentor to both our senior and junior players.

“He was passionate about basketball and improving the game in the Island. He proudly represented Jersey at the Island Games and alongside the kids that he coached.

“Beyond his official roles, G was our friend, our brother, and the lifeblood of our community. His energy, passion and huge spirit have given us so much enjoyment and pride over so many years.

“We wish to express our sincere condolences to his wife and young family, who we will do everything we can to support during this sad time. 

“We also pass on our deepest sympathies to his wider family, friends and colleagues at RBC.”

Mr Hoareau was married and had a young family.

The association said that as a mark of respect to Mr Hoareau, who was also the mini’s lead coach, all training sessions have been cancelled until after half term to allow coaching team time “to process the loss of their dear friend and colleague”. 

The Guernsey Basketball Association posted a tribute on its Facebook page.

“Our thoughts are with our friends in Jersey following the shocking events of yesterday.

“We send our love, thoughts and sincere condolences to the family and friends of Guillaume Hoareau.

“This has shocked the whole of the basketball community.

“We offer our support and stand together with Jersey Basketball during this tough time.”

Both the JBA and GBA Facebook pages were flooded with posts paying tribute from players and fans.

Pictured top: Guillaume Hoareau in a 2016 inter insular match. Image from JEP.