“He Was My Best Friend”: Emotional RJ Barrett Breaks Silence on Heartbreaking Loss of Younger Brother Before Raptors Return
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Toronto Raptors star RJ Barrett has been out of the action since mid-March because of the death of his younger brother Nathan. Recently he appeared in an interview for the first time since the tragedy. Barrett opened up about the pain of the loss and the unwavering support that’s helping him through this difficult time.
Nathan Barrett passed away on 12 March. His age and cause of death have not been disclosed.
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Barrett admitted “It’s a hard time, for sure, He was my best friend. I’m always missing him. I still text him. I still call him sometimes; I don’t know why.” This describes the bond between both of them. They were very close beyond the basketball court. Both of them shared competitive spirit and their connection was strengthened by sport.
RJ Barrett on the passing of his younger brother Nathan: "It's a hard time, for sure. He was my best friend. I'm always missing him. I still text him. I still call him sometimes; I don't know why. But I'm thankful for all the support from everybody & definitely from the Raptors"
— Josh Lewenberg (@JLew1050) March 29, 2024
The interview also described the competition between both of them. Barrett joked that he would always win: “He (Nathan) would be mad. He would foul me. He would be saying I’m cheating and all that stuff. “This described their dynamic bond which highlighted the love and friendly competition they shared. RJ added “He was the best, man. I got basketball but he got everything else… Whatever he put his mind to he could do.” It spoke volumes about RJ’s admiration for his brother and the talent that his brother had.
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RJ Barrett appreciated the love and support. The support from the basketball community and Raptors organization has truly helped him. “I’m thankful for all the support from everybody & definitely from the Raptors,” he expressed.
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The pain of losing someone close is unbearable. RJ remains committed to honor his brother’s memory through his actions both on and off the court. He said “If I know my brother he would want me to be here, to try to continue to make the Barrett legacy grow“. These words highlight the family’s love and an unwavering desire to honor his brother’s memory. By returning to the court Barrett doesn’t just find solace but he also carries the spirit of his best friend and #1 supporter.
RJ isn't sure when he'll return to the court & play again but practising/being back around the team has helped.
"Basketball is my sanctuary so this actually brings me peace… If I know my brother he would want me to be here, to try to continue to make the Barrett legacy grow."
— Josh Lewenberg (@JLew1050) March 29, 2024
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The path ahead is uncertain and there is no exact information about when RJ will return. Barrett’s reflection on the passing of his younger brother Nathan serves a powerful reminder of the enduring bonds of family and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. RJ will hopefully soon return to the Raptor’s lineup. His tribute to Nathan serves as inspiration and sets new standards for the power of love, hope, and the enduring legacy of brotherhood.
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Edited by:
Caroline Joseph