Nathan Barrett, brother of Toronto Raptors star RJ Barrett, passes away

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Posted By: jasabacklink March 15, 2024

Nathan Barrett, the younger brother of Toronto Raptors star RJ Barrett, passed away on Tuesday.

Nathan’s age and cause of death were not revealed, but a statement notes that he was surrounded by his family, friends, and church members.

The notice was released on Thursday in a statement posted on X by the Toronto Raptors and Canada Basketball (Rowan Barrett—RJ and Nathan’s father—is Canada Basketball’s general manager) on behalf of the Barrett family.

“While our family is devastated by this great loss, we will continue to cherish the memories and time spent together. Nathan was a God-fearing young man of strong character. He was thoughtful, kind, loving, compassionate, creative, admirable and driven,” the statement said.

“During this difficult time, our family would like to ask for privacy but greatly appreciates the outpouring of love and prayers that we have been receiving. Though his time with us was brief, he will live forever in our hearts.”

RJ Barrett, 23, hails from Mississauga. He was drafted as the third pick in 2019 by the New York Knicks from Duke University, and was traded to the Raptors in December 2019. This season, Barrett has been averaging 19.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game.

Chris Stewart, Barrett’s former coach from the Mississauga Monarchs, confirmed the tragic news on Thursday in an Instagram post.

“On March 12 my extended Monarch’s family lost another member @thenathanbarrett[.] It’s hard to believe this is the second time this has happened to my family & basketball community,” he wrote, adding that Nathan was only with them for a short time in grade 7 before he moved to Florida, but whenever he visited 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.”

RJ didn’t play in Toronto’s 113-104 loss to the Pistons in Detroit on Wednesday. There is no word yet if he will play in tonight’s home game against the Orlando Magic.