The basketball world has been struck with a tragedy. Toronto Raptors Guard RJ Barrett’s younger brother, Nathan Barrett, has passed away. Nathan’s former youth basketball coach, Chris Stewart, confirmed the tragic news. The cause of Nathan’s sudden passing remains undisclosed. Nathan was 4 years younger than RJ Barrett, who is currently 23.

Canada Basketball and the Toronto Raptors shared a statement on behalf of the Barrett family, after Nathan’s passing. “It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the loss of our beloved son, Nathan Tyler Barrett, who passed away on Tuesday, March 12, surrounded by his family, church, and friends.” Stewart’s statement also described Nathan to be a God-fearing young man, with a strong character. It further stated, “He was thoughtful, kind, loving, compassionate, creative, admirable, and driven”.

Like his older brother, Nathan played high school basketball at the guard position for the Montverde Academy. Even though he was a talented basketball player, Nathan aspired to become a pilot. As per his Montverde bio, Nathan had a great interest in attending college at Oregon or Duke.

Both Nathan and RJ are sons of Canada Basketball GM, Rowan Barrett.

The family seeks privacy to deal with the tough time they’re facing. They appreciate the out-pour of love and support they’re getting from people around the world. Stewart’s statement even expressed how difficult Nathan’s passing has been to the family, “No parent should ever have to bury a child, hug your kids today a little longer. You will be missed Nathan, RIP.” 

The NBA world wasn’t too far behind from reaching out to the family after the devastating loss, with love, prayers, and grace in their hearts.

NBA World sends prayers to RJ Barrett’s Family

One fan wrote on Instagram, “Prayers out to the Barrett family, can’t imagine how much it would hurt losing your younger brother.” Many fans could not believe how Nathan passed at such a young age, “Why? How?” and “How are all these young kids just passing away? Sh*t is crazy, godbless him and his family”

Another fan was heartbroken by the shocking news and claimed it goes beyond basketball: “My prayers and condolences to the Barrett family. This goes beyond basketball and there’s nothing we can do or say to ease the pain they feel. Lord, please comfort them in their time of grief.” This thoughtful fan empathized with the Toronto Raptors guard and wanted him to take as much time as he needed to recover from his brother’s death. “Man prayers up. RJ take your time getting back.”

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It is in tough times like these that the NBA Community forgets about the on-court competition and rivalry to unite for a bigger cause. The Barrett family suffered a tragic loss, and it was heartwarming to see the fans send their prayers from around the world. Of course, it is a terrible time for the Barret family, RJ, his father Rowan, and his mother Kesha. The elder brother lost his younger brother, his companion, a friend, and the parents lost a child before he could spread his wings and fly around the world.

RJ missed yesterday’s game against the Pistons following the death of his brother. He has further been ruled out of Friday’s game against the Orlando Magic and might miss more upcoming games to deal with the family tragedy.

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