The basketball world mourned the loss of Grand Rapids Drive basketball player Zeke Upshaw on Monday.
The 26 year-old died today, two days after collapsing on the court near the end of his NBA G League game.
Upshaw played three seasons at Illinois State before finishing out his college career at Hofstra. He was not selected in the 2014 NBA Draft and then began his pro career which included stints in Slovenia, Luxembourg before arriving in Grand Rapids in 2016.
The Drive issued a statement through social media from Upshaw’s mom, Jewel Upshaw.
Statement from Jewel Upshaw, Zeke's mother: “After continued efforts from the medical team at Spectrum Health, Zeke made his transition at 11:16 am. To family, friends, teammates, coaches, fans & confidants, thank you for your prayers and support during this most difficult time. pic.twitter.com/1AutFtIFwU
— Grand Rapids Drive (@grdrive) March 26, 2018
Upshaw’s agent BJ Bass shared his condolences on social media.
Zeke literally played his heart out, helping the team he loved earn their first playoff berth in franchise history. He was playing the best Basketball of his life. We’re all still in shock. I loved him so much. RIP to my Brother Zeke Upshaw.
— BJ Bass (@bjbass2) March 26, 2018
Many current and former NBA players took to twitter to offer their prayers and condolences.
Prayers out to Zeke Upshaw’s family ??????
— Karl-Anthony Towns (@KarlTowns) March 26, 2018
My heart goes out to the family and friends of Zeke Upshaw!!! ??????
— Isaiah Thomas (@isaiahthomas) March 26, 2018
Zeke Upshaw ??
— Caron Butler (@realtuffjuice) March 25, 2018
PRAYING FOR THE FAMILY OF ZEKE UPSHAW.! ??????
— JAE CROWDER (@CJC9BOSS) March 26, 2018
RIP big fella @zeke_upshaw ???? you will be missed! https://t.co/tzqgnpoYVx
— Brice Johnson (@bjohnson_23) March 26, 2018
I come to you today asking for direction in such a confusing time Lord!! ZeKe Upshaw we love you bro ??
— Jordan Crawford (@jcraw55) March 25, 2018
My prayers and condolences go out to the family and friends of Zeke Upshaw????
— Tobias Harris (@tobias31) March 26, 2018
Please join us in praying for Zeke’s family and those who knew him during this difficult time. May the Lord comfort and sustain them.
