Former NBA player Darius Morris has died suddenly and unexpectedly at the age of 33, adding to a long list of high-profile young and healthy sports stars who have passed away this year.
Morris’s death was confirmed by his family after discovering his body Thursday, according to TMZ Sports.
The circumstances of the passing of a former guard for the Los Angeles Lakers have not been disclosed.
The Morris family issued a statement following his death:
“With great sadness, we announce the passing of our dearly beloved son, Darius Aaron Morris,” the statement said Saturday, TMZ Sports reported.
“During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace.”
Former NBA Player Darius Morris Dead At 33 | Click to read more 👇 https://t.co/0BiP66r2Wi
— TMZ (@TMZ) May 4, 2024
The Daily Caller noted how Morris began his basketball career in high school in Los Angeles, then made an impact at the University of Michigan. As a sophomore, he earned a spot on the All-Big Ten Third Team and set a school record for single-season assists, a record Trey Burke later broke, the outlet stated.
The Lakers drafted Morris in the second round of the 2011 NBA Draft. He spent his first two professional seasons in Los Angeles, playing alongside the late Kobe Bryant.
During his NBA career, Morris also played for the Philadelphia 76ers, L.A. Clippers, Memphis Grizzlies, and Brooklyn Nets, averaging 3.3 points, 1 rebound, and 1.4 assists in 132 games, according to TMZ Sports.
After his NBA tenure, Morris extended his basketball career overseas, playing in China, Russia, and France.
