Basketball has seen incredible talents rise, but some careers were cut short. These athletes left lasting legacies, whether through accolades, unforgettable moments, or unfulfilled potential. Here, we remember 15 basketball players whose impact on the game endures despite their untimely passing.
Dražen Petrović
A sharpshooter with a flair for the dramatic, Croatian sensation, Dražen Petrović was one of the first European players to impact the NBA significantly. Known as the “Mozart of Basketball,” he dazzled with the New Jersey Nets. Petrović was on the brink of superstardom when he died in a 1993 car accident.
Len Bias
Len Bias was a once-in-a-generation talent destined to take the NBA by storm. He was chosen second overall by the Boston Celtics in the 1986 NBA Draft. However, Bias’s life ended unexpectedly two days after the draft, due to a sudden health crisis. This left fans wondering as to what could have possibly gone wrong.
Reggie Lewis
A heart condition claimed this rising star and Celtics’ captain—Reggie Lewis’s life. He suffered a cardiac arrest during an offseason workout in 1993. Averaging 17.6 points over six seasons, he was distinguished by his smooth mid-range game and leadership. His loss left a significant void in the Celtics’ roster.
Eddie Griffin
Drafted by the New Jersey Nets in 2001, Eddie Griffin was a promising forward acclaimed for his shot-blocking skills. Despite his talent, his personal struggles and alcoholism marred his career. After stints with the Rockets and Timberwolves, Griffin tragically died in a 2007 car accident, leaving behind unfulfilled potential.
Conrad McRae
Nicknamed “McNasty” for his defensive prowess, McRae unfortunately collapsed and died during an Orlando Magic summer league practice in 2000. A prominent player at Syracuse, Conrad McRae, was recruited by the Washington Bullets in 1993. He had built his career in Europe with teams in France, Italy, and Greece.
Bobby Phills
Phills was a brilliant three-point shooter for the Charlotte Hornets, who played a celebrated lockdown defense. Sadly, he died in a car accident on January 12, 2000, while driving at a high speed with teammate David Wesley. The Hornets retired his number 13 jersey, honoring his dedication and skill on the court.
Lorenzen Wright
With a 13-season NBA career, Lorenzen Wright, the rebounding and shot-blocking mastermind, played for teams like the Clippers, Hawks, Grizzlies, Kings, and Cavaliers. In 2010, he was found deceased after going missing for ten days. His ex-wife, Sherra Wright-Robinson, and her accomplice were later convicted.
Malik Sealy
As a 14th overall selected player in 1992, Sealy averaged 10.1 points per game for several NBA teams, during his career. At 30, Sealy was killed by a drunk driver while returning from teammate Kevin Garnett’s birthday party. His death, caused by the driver’s recklessness, deeply affected fans and teammates.
Robert Traylor
Robert “Tractor” Traylor was known for his imposing presence on the court and his soft-spoken demeanor. His career, marked by weight-related battles, spanned seven seasons with various teams. His cumulative average was 4.8 points and 3.7 rebounds. Traylor died suddenly in 2011 from a heart attack.
Jason Collier
The 7-footer played center for the Houston Rockets and Atlanta Hawks, scoring a career-high 22 points in 2004. Collier died unexpectedly on October 15, 2005, due to heart arrhythmia. This led to tributes, including the NBA Development League’s sportsmanship award. He was recognized for his soft touch around the rim.
Bryce Dejean-Jones
After mistakenly entering the wrong apartment, Dejean-Jones was fatally shot in 2016. The player was visiting his girlfriend in Dallas for their daughter’s first birthday. As a 23-year-old, he had just signed a three-year deal with the Pelicans and was recovering from wrist surgery at the time of his death.
Terry Furlow
Selected 12th overall in the 1976 NBA Draft, Furlow played for several teams. His best season was in 1979–80 with the Utah Jazz. Despite his remarkable career, personal struggles took a toll. On May 23, 1980, he tragically passed away in a high-speed car accident in Ohio, where circumstances suggested challenges with substance use.
Zeke Upshaw
Upshaw was a determined player who fought his way into the NBA G League, showcasing his scoring ability and resilience. His dream of making it to the NBA was within reach. However, in 2018, Upshaw collapsed during a game and passed away two days later. This left the basketball world mourning a tenacious competitor.
Kim Perrot
Seen as a dynamic point guard for the Houston Comets, Perrot helped the team win two WNBA championships. She was known for her fierce play and close friendship with Cynthia Cooper. She averaged 7.2 points and 3.3 steals per game. Unfortunately, Perrot’s career was tragically cut short by cancer as she lost the battle in the year 1999.
Michael Wright
Michael Wright, a versatile international basketball player, was drafted 39th by the Knicks in 2001 but never played in the NBA. He did play across Europe and Asia before he died. On November 10, 2015, he was found silenced in Brooklyn, wherein two men were accused in connection to his death.
15 Basketball Players Who Tragically Passed Away During Their Career