Two days after collapsing on the court during a G League game, Zeke Upshaw of the Grand Rapids Drive has passed away, the team announced today (Twitter link). He was 26 years old.
“After continued efforts from the medical team at Spectrum Health, Zeke made his transition at 11:16 am,” Jewel Upshaw, Zeke’s mother, said in a statement. “To family, friends, teammates, coaches, fans & confidants, thank you for your prayers and support during this most difficult time.”
With about 50 seconds remaining in the Drive’s game against the Long Island Nets on Saturday night, Upshaw collapsed onto the court. He lay motionless on his stomach for several minutes before being taken off the floor on a stretcher. Upshaw was immediately transported to nearby Spectrum Hospital and was placed under doctors’ care, but passed away on Monday morning.
Although he never played in an NBA game, Upshaw was a key player for the Pistons’ G League affiliate in Grand Rapids, having appeared in 75 contests for the club over the last two seasons. The 6’6″ swingman had scored 11 points in Saturday’s win to help the Drive secure a playoff spot. Upshaw, who began his professional career in 2014, previously played college ball at Illinois State and Hofstra.
We at Hoops Rumors send our condolences to Upshaw’s family and friends, as well as to the Pistons organization.
R.I.P. Zeke. Gone way to soon.
agree RIP. So sad
So sad I saw the headline right when he collapsed. Just playing ball having a nice game and then wow.
So sad you just never know when anyone is going to drop dead. Heard someone say perhaps we take for granted we will see someone again.
The enemy’s greatest accomplishment is making people think they have plenty of time before they have to consider their Eternal welfare. Charles Spurgeon.
Well put my friend.
Putting this tragedy in perspective with a reference to Charles Spurgeon is thoughtful to put it mildly.
Sorry, was that bad? Was that insensitive? I didn’t mean it to be. So sorry if it came off that way. I just feel for people that die young especially this man today, and their families.
No, no! Spurgeon is a “go to guy” in so many ways. It was very sensitive and thoughtful. It’s just that a Spurgeon reference in a sports context is extremely rare.
RIP Zeke.