Drew Gordon, the older brother of Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon, tragically passed away in a car accident in Portland, Oregon, as confirmed by his agent, Calvin Andrews, to ESPN late Thursday. Gordon was 33 years old.

Drew Gordon was a standout basketball player in his own right, carving out a significant collegiate and professional career. He began his college basketball journey at UCLA after receiving offers from several prestigious programs, including Duke, North Carolina, and Arizona. 

Despite experiencing two relatively successful years with the Bruins, Gordon decided to transfer to the University of New Mexico for his junior season. His performance as a Lobo was impressive, as he averaged at least 13 points and 10 rebounds per game in each of his two seasons, drawing attention from NBA scouts.

Although he went undrafted in the 2012 NBA Draft, Gordon’s talent and determination kept him in the professional basketball circuit. He joined the Dallas Mavericks for the Summer League, showcasing his skills in hopes of securing a spot in the NBA. While he didn’t land a permanent NBA role immediately, he persevered and played in various international leagues and the NBA G League.

In 2014, Gordon achieved his NBA dream by signing with the Philadelphia 76ers. During the 2014-15 season, he appeared in nine games for the 76ers before being waived in December. Despite this setback, Gordon continued to pursue his basketball career with tenacity and passion.

Gordon’s professional journey took him across the globe, where he played nearly a decade of basketball, mostly overseas. One of the highlights of his international career was being named an All-Star in France in 2015. His dedication to the sport and ability to adapt to different playing styles and cultures made him a valuable player in various leagues around the world.

In 2023, after an extensive and diverse basketball career, Drew Gordon decided to retire from professional play. His contributions to the sport, both domestically and internationally, were marked by his resilience and commitment to excellence.

Drew Gordon’s untimely passing has left a profound impact on the basketball community and beyond. His legacy as a talented player and beloved brother will be remembered by those who knew him and followed his career.