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NEED TO KNOW
Elden Campbell died after suffering a medical emergency, according to his sister
The retired NBA star, 57, had been fishing in Florida on Monday, Dec. 1 when he collapsed
Campbell's former teams and teammates are remembering the mild-mannered athlete who once "patrolled the paint" with aplomb
Elden Campbelldied after suffering a medical emergency while fishing in Florida, according to a family member.
Campbell's sister, Sandra,told theNew York Poston Wednesday, Dec. 3 that the 57-year-old retired NBA star was out on the water and had returned to shore when he collapsed on Monday.
"It was all the sudden," Sandra said. "He wasn't sick. He was out fishing."
She added, "We don't know what happened."
Campbell's body is now with the medical examiner, his sister said, and the family does not "want to speculate" as to the cause of his death.
The former Los Angeles Lakers center leaves behind his wife, Rosemary, and four children, Jay Lee, Jael, Ariel and Aaron,according to the league.
In addition to Sandra, Campbell is survived by brothers Elwayne and Charles Jr.
"He was such a big pillar and a staple to our family," Sandra told thePost. "He's going to be terribly missed."
Campbell — who played 15 seasons in the NBA from 1990-2005, won a championship with the Detroit Pistons and was known by the nickname "Easy E" for his mild temperament — is also being missed by his former team and teammates.
Reed Saxon/AP
"The Detroit Pistons organization is deeply saddened and heartbroken by the news of Elden Campbell's passing," the franchisesaid in a statement. "A proud member of our 2004 NBA Championship team, Elden patrolled the paint with strength and skill, playing an important role during one of the most memorable chapters in franchise history. Beyond his contributions on the court, Elden's calm presence and warm personality made him beloved by teammates, fans and the community alike. Our hearts and prayers are with Elden's family and friends during this difficult time."
"I loved throwing lobs to Elden because he could jump out the gym and had so much talent!"Magic Johnson, who played parts of three seasons (1990, 1991 and 1996) with Campbell,wrote on X. "Cookie and I are praying for his family and Lakers Nation as they mourn during this difficult time. Rest in peace Big E!"
Campbell's family also released a statement, and seemingly took solace in the fact that he died "doing what he loved."
"Elden was a man of faith who trusted in his lord and savior Jesus Christ," the family said in a statement. "Husband, father, brother, cousin and friend. He was a man to whom family meant everything — generous, funny, disciplined and kind, but could shut you down if required. A man of God, he passed doing what he loved: fishing out on the ocean, enjoying his idea of an ideal day."
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