NBA champion Aaron Gordon is mourning the death of his brother Drew Gordon, a former professional basketball player himself who has died less than a year into retirement.
Drew died aged 33 in a car accident in Portland, Oregon in the United States.
He is survived by three sons and his wife Angela.
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Drew made his NBA debut in 2014 following four years in college basketball and stints in Europe.
He played for several NBA teams in Summer League competition between 2012 and 2014 before breaking through to the elite level with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Aaron, five years younger than Drew, followed in his brother’s footsteps as a college star before being drafted by the Orlando Magic and later moving to the Denver Nuggets.
“The Denver Nuggets organisation is devastated to learn about the tragic passing of Drew Gordon,” the Nuggets said in a statement.
“Drew was far too young to leave this world, but his legacy will forever live on through his three beautiful children and all of his loved ones.
“Our hearts are with Aaron and the Gordon family during this extremely difficult time.”
The siblings narrowly missed out on the experience of facing each other in an NBA game during Drew’s time with the 76ers.
As well as stints in the NBA’s development league, Drew played in France, Serbia, Italy, Turkey, Lithuania, Russia, Poland, Ukraine and Japan.
He was playing in Ukraine in early 2022 when, acting on urgent advice from the American embassy, he and his family escaped days before Russia invaded the country.
Their youngest son had been born in Kyiv just weeks earlier.
The family immediately settled in Denver to be near Aaron and their parents.
Drew called time on his career in July 2023, after celebrating Aaron’s NBA championship triumph with the Nuggets.
“Look, man, going from the backyard to the big stage, I couldn’t be more proud,” Drew told The Athletic during the NBA Finals.
“I tried and failed. I had my ups and downs. And watching him being able to do it — there’s no words. I’m just a proud big brother. It’s something awesome to see.
“I’m living through him at this point. I’m just so happy that he was able to put his mind to what he wanted to do. And now we’re here.”
Denver-based NBA reporter Bennett Durando said Drew had been a constant presence at Nuggets games to watch his brother this season.
“Heartbreaking news. Just a really nice guy. Condolences to Aaron and his family,” he wrote.
Michael Carter-Williams, the 2014 NBA Rookie of the Year, played with both Gordon brothers during his NBA career and paid tribute on social media.
“Rest in paradise, Drew. A great husband, father and teammate,” he wrote.
“Aaron, I’m praying for you and your family. I love you and I’m sorry for your loss.
Drew’s former clubs, even rivals, and leagues mourned his death as the news spread around the world.
“Our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones,” Euroleague said.
Italian club Olimpia Milano wrote: “Drew Gordon was a nightmare to face during the 2014 Italian league epic semi-final series with his incredible energy and athleticism. Our prayers are going to the family. RIP.”