Toronto Raptors’ RJ Barrett is grieving a personal loss. The team confirmed earlier this week that his younger brother, Nathan, passed away. A moment of silence was held in Toronto before tonight’s game against the Orlando Magic to honor his memory. The cause of death remains private, as per the family’s wishes.

The family released a statement, “It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the loss of our beloved son and brother, Nathan Tyler Barrett, who passed away on Tuesday, March 12, surrounded by his family, church and friends. 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.” Rowan Barrett, RJ, and Nathan’s father, is Canada Basketball’s general manager.

Following Different Dreams: RJ in the NBA, Nathan in Flight School

Toronto Raptors forward RJ Barrett will be stepping away from basketball indefinitely following the sudden passing of his younger brother. Nathan, a 6-foot-1 guard, played high school basketball at Montverde Academy in Florida, just like his 23-year-old brother.

While RJ’s path led him to college balling stardom at Duke and then to the NBA as the Knicks’ 3rd overall pick in the 2019 draft, Nathan, despite starting with a similar dream, ventured out in a whole new direction. He set his sights on the skies, pursuing a career as a pilot.

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Nathan Barrett’s former youth coach, Chris Stewart, paid tribute to him in a post on his Instagram page. Stewart wrote, “Nathan was only with us for a short time in grade 7 before he moved to Florida but whenever he was back in Mississauga the boys connected…I saw Nathan last summer, all grown up, a big smile and he was excited telling me how he was starting school to become a pilot… No parent should ever have to bury a child, hug your kids today a little longer. You will be missed Nathan, RIP”

This tragedy comes after a time of series of changes for RJ Barrett. In December, after 4 seasons with the New York Knicks, he was traded to the Toronto Raptors in a deal that sent OG Anunoby the other way. Despite the transition, RJ has thrived with the Raptors, averaging 20.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game in his 27 appearances. His shooting efficiency has been equally impressive, connecting 55.3% of his shots from the field and 41.7% from beyond the arc.

Citing “personal reasons”, Barrett was listed as out for the Wednesday game against the Detroit Pistons. As per Raptors analyst Blake Murphy, RJ will be away from the team indefinitely to mourn the loss of his younger brother. With this heavy loss, RJ should take all the time he needs before returning to court. Toronto faces the Orlando Magic again on March 18th.

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