Minnesota guard Dupree McBrayer and his family released a statement on Monday thanking fans for their support after a GoFundMe was established to help pay for the funeral of Tayra McFarlane-Shannon, Dupree’s mother.
“The Shannon family would like to thank the University of Minnesota, staff, faculty, as well as fans, for all the love and support for Dupree,” the family said in a statement. “We thank Coach Richard Pitino, his staff and the basketball team players for attending Tayra’s funeral in support of Dupree. We kindly thank Caitlin Mahoney for her tremendous help for raising donations helping with funeral expenses. We appreciate each and every one at The University of Minnesota (fans as well) for supporting our family and Dupree at this difficult time. Thank you all and God Bless.”
Minnesota head coach Richard Pitino and his family donated $5,000, while football coach P.J. Fleck donated $800. In total, the GoFundMe raised $15,000.
McBrayer’s mother, who worked for decades at Riker’s Island, died earlier this month. McBrayer was in tears after an emotional win over Nebraska days after she passed away.
The men’s basketball team traveled to New York City for the funeral.