Former Los Angeles Lakers point guard Darius Morris has died. The retired basketball pro was just 33 years old.Â
The story was first reported by TMZ, which said his body was found in the Los Angeles Area. No cause of death has been shared.
"With great sadness we announce the passing of our dearly beloved son, Darius Aaron Morris," Morris' family told TMZ on Saturday. "During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace."
The Los Angeles native had a standout college career with the Michigan Wolverines, where he set a school record for assists at the time.
He averaged 9.9 points, 4.8 assists and 2.9 rebounds during his college career.
The Michigan Basketball Community mourns the passing of Darius Morris 💛💙 pic.twitter.com/cZLf4t5636
— Michigan Men's Basketball (@umichbball) May 4, 2024
Morris was the 41st draft pick for the Lakers in 2011.
He played two seasons alongside late basketball legend Kobe Bryant. Morris also played with the Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Memphis Grizzlies before ending his NBA career in 2015, averaging 3.3 points and 1.1 assists per game.
We are heartbroken by the passing of Darius Morris đź’ś pic.twitter.com/jkTs2VrKb6
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) May 4, 2024
Morris later played in Russia, China, and France before retiring in 2020.
Former Michigan head coach John Beilein paid tribute on X.
"Saddened to hear about the passing of former Wolverine Darius Morris," Beilein posted. "In 2010-11 Darius was our starting [point guard.] He was a leader in that program changing 21 win season that laid the foundation for Michigan’s next decade of success. RIP DMo and condolences to the Morris family."
Saddened to hear about the passing of former Wolverine Darius Morris. In 2010-11 Darius was our starting pt gd . He was a leader in that program changing 21 win season that laid the foundation for Michigan’s next decade of success.
RIP DMo and condolences to the Morris family.— John Beilein (@JohnBeilein) May 4, 2024
In 2020, Morris was sued by his ex-girlfriend over an alleged graphic assault, but she later said she made the story up and would have charges dropped.
"It's private, none of it's true," she told TMZ at the time.
