GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Zeke Upshaw, a swingman for the Detroit Pistons’ G League affiliate who collapsed on the court during a game over the weekend, died Monday.
Upshaw, 26, died at a hospital, the Grand Rapids Drive said. No cause was disclosed. He collapsed Saturday night near the end of a game against the Long Island Nets.
Upshaw’s mother, Jewel Upshaw, released a statement thanking the team and fans. Team owner Steve Jbara said the Grand Rapids area was fortunate to enjoy Upshaw’s commitment to the community, especially children.
Malcolm Turner, the G League’s president, said the league is devastated by Upshaw’s death and extended the league’s condolences to Upshaw’s family and friends.
“Zeke was an outstanding young man whose powerful belief in himself and uncommon perseverance led to a successful professional basketball career. A beloved member of the Grand Rapids Drive, Zeke’s continuous improvement and tireless work ethic were hallmarks of his career,” he said in a news release.
Upshaw had scored 11 points to help the Drive earn a playoff spot with the 101-99 victory Saturday.
The 6-foot-6 Upshaw was in his second year with the Drive. He played in college at Illinois State and Hofstra.
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