Former Elitzur Yavne Basketball Player Kino Rocheford Fatally Shot in Harlem Tournament

Kino Rocheford, a 35-year-old former professional basketball player who competed in various European leagues and Israel, was fatally shot during a basketball tournament in Harlem on Friday night. Rocheford, who played for Elitzur Yavne in Israel's National League in 2014, appeared in 10 games averaging 21.3 points and 11.2 rebounds per game. The shooting occurred around 10:30 p.m. near the Martin Luther King Jr. complex, where approximately 500 spectators were present. Rocheford was shot in the head while watching a game, and two others, a 28-year-old man and a 22-year-old woman, were injured and hospitalized in stable condition.

Emergency responders attempted resuscitation at the scene before transporting Rocheford to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Police indicated the shooting was targeted, likely stemming from a personal dispute involving Rocheford. Authorities have identified a suspect and are actively pursuing an arrest. Despite the late hour, the large crowd and surveillance cameras are expected to aid the investigation.

Rocheford grew up in Brooklyn to Trinidadian immigrant parents and was known locally for his dedication to basketball. A family friend and former coach, Ronnie Francis, expressed deep sorrow, recalling Rocheford's strong work ethic and successful career that earned him college scholarships and international opportunities. Fairleigh Dickinson University, where Rocheford played from 2011 to 2013, mourned his tragic death, highlighting his leadership and lasting legacy. Throughout his career, Rocheford also played in France, Lithuania, Kosovo, the Netherlands, the UK, and Switzerland.