Drew Gordon, the elder sibling of Denver Nuggets’ star Aaron Gordon, passed away in a car accident on May 30, 2024, in Portland, Oregon, according to his agent, Calvin Andrews. At the time of his death, Gordon was 33.

A San Jose, California native, Drew Gordon first rose to prominence at Archbishop Mitty High School, securing a spot in the top 50 of the 2008 graduating class. His exceptional skills and relentless dedication earned him a place at UCLA, and his later transfer to New Mexico further cemented his reputation as a formidable player.

High-profile programs such as Duke, North Carolina, and Arizona sought after Gordon, who began his collegiate basketball career at UCLA. After two seasons, he transferred to the University of New Mexico.

During his time at New Mexico, Gordon averaged over 13 points and 10 rebounds per game, stirring interest from the NBA. His senior year saw him leading the Mountain West in rebounding, averaging 11.1 per game. He played a pivotal role in propelling the Lobos to a Mountain West Championship and a place in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

Despite a successful collegiate career, Gordon was not picked in the 2012 NBA Draft. He played for the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Summer League, which opened doors to several professional opportunities. His professional career included time in the G League and various international leagues. Gordon’s only NBA stint was with the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season, but he was waived in December 2014 after appearing in just nine games.

Gordon’s international basketball career spanned almost a decade, with stops in Italy, France, Turkey, Japan, Serbia, Lithuania, Poland, Ukraine, and Russia. His performance for Champagne Châlons-Reims in France earned him All-Star status in 2015.

In 2023, Gordon retired from professional basketball, leaving behind a legacy marked by tenacity and international achievement.

His untimely death has left a substantial gap in the basketball community and among his loved ones. He is survived by his wife, Angela, their three children, and his younger brother, Aaron Gordon, a notable player for the Denver Nuggets.

“Drew was more than just a brother to me,” Aaron Gordon said. “He was my role model and my biggest supporter. Words can’t express how much he will be missed.”

The Denver Nuggets organization offered their sympathies, saying, “Drew left this world far too soon, but his legacy will endure through his three wonderful children and all his loved ones.”

The basketball world will remember Drew Gordon for his contributions both on and off the court. His commitment, determination, and affection for his family and friends will forever be treasured.