Kentucky men's basketball coach John Calipari issued a fond remembrance and compelling tribute to Terrence Clarke after the Wildcats freshman was tragically killed in a car accident on Thursday.

Calipari hailed Terrence Clarke as a vibrant spirit and someone who brought constant joy on and off the hardwood:

“His heart was overflowing with love for his family, his friends and his teammates,” Calipari said of Clarke. “He was as caring of a person as I have ever coached. His enthusiasm and energy – not just for basketball, for life – are what we all hope to have in our journey. Terrence had figured that part out – that if you wake up every day with a smile on your face and a joy in everything you do, this life is beautiful.”

Calipari pointed out he was “hard” on Terrence Clarke because he had no doubt the Boston native was “headed towards greatness.”

Clarke died following the accident, which occurred in the Los Angeles area. According to Los Angeles Police Department Sgt. John Matassa, Clarke ran a red light “at a very high rate of speed” on Thursday afternoon when he collided with a truck. Matassa said Terrence Clarke was not wearing his seatbelt properly at the time of the crash.

The former Brewster Academy star had previously declared his intent to enter this summer's NBA draft. Calipari said he lamented not reaching out to the guys who were preparing for the NBA, including Terrence Clarke.

Coaches and players around the sport reacted to Terrence Clarke's death, including Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown and head coach Brad Stevens.

The world lost a good-hearted young man on Thursday. But Calipari said those who had the privilege to spend time with Terrence Clarke are forever made better for it, within and far beyond the University of Kentucky.