Former NBA point guard Darius Morris tragically passed away at the age of 33, with his cause of death being revealed as a heart attack caused in part by drugs and alcohol. The Los Angeles County medical examiner found that Morris had coronary artery atherosclerosis, also known as coronary heart disease, as well as elements of cocaine, hydrocodone, and ethanol in his system. These substances were listed as contributing factors to his passing.
Morris, who played basketball at Windward School in Mar Vista and went on to play for the University of Michigan before being drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers, was known for his talent on the court. He helped the Wolverines make it to the Round of 32 in the NCAA Tournament during his sophomore season, before entering the NBA as a second-round draft pick for the Lakers. He played in 132 games throughout his career with the Lakers and four other NBA teams, averaging 3.3 points, 1.0 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game.
Despite his success in the NBA, Morris struggled with substance abuse issues, as indicated by the substances found in his system at the time of his passing. After leaving the Lakers, he played for several other NBA teams before moving overseas to China in an attempt to revive his career. He also tried to make a comeback through the G-League, but unfortunately, it did not work out as he had hoped. Morris was remembered as a kind and fun-loving person who always had a smile on his face and enjoyed every moment of his time in the NBA.
Many in the NBA community mourn the loss of Darius Morris, remembering him as a talented player who brought joy and positivity to those around him. Mike Bresnahan of Spectrum SportsNet described Morris as a super nice guy who never forgot to have fun and enjoy his time in the NBA. Despite his struggles, Morris was beloved by all who interacted with him and was seen as a potential building block for the Lakers early in his career. The news of his tragic passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and fans.
As more details about Darius Morris’s passing come to light, the NBA community continues to reflect on his legacy and the impact he had on those around him. From his humble beginnings playing basketball in Los Angeles to his time in the NBA and overseas, Morris left a lasting impression on those who knew him. His story serves as a reminder of the struggles that many athletes face, both on and off the court, and the importance of seeking help and support when dealing with personal challenges. The memory of Darius Morris will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of basketball players.
