Toronto Raptors star RJ Barrett is dealing with a personal tragedy. His younger brother has died.
Nathan Barrett passed away earlier this week, his former youth basketball coach Chris Stewart confirmed in an Instagram post on Thursday.
“On March 12 my extended Monarch’s family lost another member @thenathanbarrett,” Stewart wrote. “It’s hard to believe this is the second time this has happened to my family & basketball community. Nathan was only with us for a short time in grade 7 before he moved to Florida but whenever he was back in Mississauga the boys connected.
“If you have had the pleasure of knowing this family you know how much they do for the basketball community so keep them in your thoughts and prayers. No parent should ever have to bury a child, hug your kids today a little longer. You will be missed Nathan, RIP.”
No cause of death for Nathan Barrett has been revealed. According to his Instagram profile, the younger Barrett was an aspiring pilot.
RJ Barrett has been playing the best basketball of his career since being traded from the New York Knicks to Toronto in late December.
The 23-year-old wing did not play in last night’s game against the Detroit Pistons and is expected to miss tomorrow night’s game against the Orlando Magic as well.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Barrett family and all of Nathan’s friends during this difficult time.
May he rest in peace.