The NBA is mourning a former champion. Elden Campbell has passed away, age 57, his family confirmed. His former teammate and legendary basketball player, Magic Johnson, shares an emotional tribute.
Elden Campbell, a center who played 15 seasons in the NBA, has passed away. His family confirmed the news to his former team, the Detroit Pistons, with whom he won the 2024 NBA Championship, saying he died on Monday.
Per the NY Post, Campbell collapsed after a fishing trip in Florida with his sister, Sandra. The former NBA player had been out of the water when he suffered a medical emergency back on land.
“It was all the sudden. He wasn’t sick. He was out fishing,” Sandra said, adding that she and her family “don’t want to speculate” on the cause of death.
“We don’t know what happened,” she said.
Elden Campbell’s body is currently with the medical examiner. They hope to have more information in the coming days.
“He was such a big pillar and a staple to our family,” Sandra told the NY Post. “He’s going to be terribly missed.”
NBA champion Elden Campbell dead at 57
The family made a statement through the Detroit Pistons organisation after the tragic death.
“Elden was a man of faith who trusted in his lord and savior Jesus Christ. Husband, father, brother, cousin and friend. He was a man to whom family meant everything — generous, funny, disciplined and kind, but could shut you down if required. A man of God, he passed doing what he loved; fishing out on the ocean, enjoying his idea of an ideal day,” the statement read.
The Detroit Pistons also shared a statement, reading, “The Detroit Pistons organization is deeply saddened and heartbroken by the news of Elden Campbell’s passing. A proud member of our 2004 NBA Championship team, Elden patrolled the paint with strength and skill, playing an important role during one of the most memorable chapters in franchise history. Beyond his contributions on the court, Elden’s calm presence and warm personality made him beloved by teammates, fans, and the community alike. Our hearts and prayers are with Elden’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
Elden Campbell was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round of the 1990 NBA Draft after starring at Clemson University. He got the inckname “Easy E” for his efortless style of play.
Legend Magic Johnson shares tribute
He played in a total of 1,044 NBA games and produced more than 10,000 points and 1,600 blocks. Besides representing the Los Angeles Lakers and the Detroit Pistons, he also played for the New Orleans Hornets, Seattle Supersonics and New Jersey Nets. He retired in 2005.
The late basketball star played with some of the greats, including Shaquille O’Neal, Koby Bryant, and Magic Johnson. The latter shared an emotional statement on Wednesday after Elden’s passing-
I just received devastating news that my former Lakers teammate and friend Elden Campbell has passed away,” Magic Johnson wrote. “He was such a gentle soul. As a basketball player, he was extremely athletic. I loved throwing lobs to Elden because he could jump out the gym and had so much talent! Cookie and I are praying for his family and Lakers Nation as they mourn during this difficult time. Rest in peace Big E!”
