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In the aftermath of Drew Gordon's passing, many paid their respects to the late forward. From the Denver Nuggets organization to Damian Lillard and Magic Johnson, the NBA community mourned the tragedy that befell the older brother of Aaron Gordon. Johnson, in particular, posted about it on X.
“Continued condolences and prayers for the Gordon family following the loss of son, brother, husband, father, teammate and friend to many, Drew Gordon,” Johnson said. “Drew is the older brother of Denver Nuggets star Aaron Gordon and a former professional basketball player himself.”
On May 30, Drew Gordon tragically passed away in a car accident. As Johnson said, the 6-foot-9 forward carved out a career by playing the sport he loved.
Gordon played his first two years of college ball at UCLA. During his sophomore season, he put up 11.2 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.0 blocks in just six games before transferring to New Mexico. The forward would spend his junior and senior seasons with the Lobos. In his fourth and final year, Gordon averaged a double-double of 13.7 points and 11.1 boards in 35 games. His performance led many analysts to project him as a potential draft pick.
However, Gordon went undrafted, and he spent the majority of his career playing overseas. He also had stints with Summer League and G-League teams. He played a total of nine games in the NBA, suiting up for the Philadelphia 76ers.
Other reactions to Drew Gordon's passing
As mentioned earlier, the Nuggets organization and Damian Lillard also reacted to Gordon's passing.
The Nuggets also put out a post on X, containing a picture of the Gordon brothers and a heartfelt message on behalf of the franchise.
“The Denver Nuggets organization is devastated to learn about the tragic passing of Drew Gordon. 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 message read.
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) May 31, 2024
As for Lillard, he shared an old photo of Drew in a 76ers jersey.
“Rest up bra,” Lillard wrote. (per EssentiallySports' Rohan Bhaunt)
It's been rough for Denver's forwards
Recent times have been tough for Denver Nuggets players. Besides Gordon, Michael Porter Jr. is also going through family ordeals of his own. After his brother, Jontay Porter, was banned from the NBA for gambling, two of Michael's other brothers suddenly faced legal troubles.
And to make it worse for Porter, it all happened in the midst of Denver's playoff run. One could imagine how hard it was for him to concentrate on the postseason with everything going on.
Right now, the best thing that the Nuggets community can do is be in full support of their two starting forwards.
