Former NBA star Brandon Hunter has passed away suddenly at the age of just 42.

The sportsman kicked off his basketball career in 2003 after getting drafted by the Boston Celtics following his studies at an Ohio university.

In 2006, Hunter briefly joined the ranks of James LeBron by signing with the Cleveland Cavaliers. After playing with the team in the NBA Summer League, however, Hunter was released.

He then joined Orlando Magic and he stayed with the team until 2008. After several years in the NBA, Hunter went to Europe where he played for several teams from countries including Italy, Greece, and Israel.

Eventually, the basketballer also started Hunter Athletes Management – his own sports management company.

According to the reports, the basketballer now died at the age of 42. No cause of death was immediately provided.

The sad news was announced by Ohio basketball coach Jeff Boals who tweeted: “RIP to a Bobcat Great. Gone way too soon.”

Boals added: “Sad day for Bobcat Nation. Brandon Hunter, Gone way too soon. One of the best to ever put on the green and white.”

Confirming Hunter’s passing was also the Orlando Magic PR team who wrote: “We are terribly saddened to learn of the loss of our former teammate, Brandon Hunter. We send our deepest condolences to the entire Hunter family.”

Following the announcement, tributes to the athlete began pouring in on social media.

“Lost another good brother. Rest easy my friend,” former NBA point guard T.J. Ford wrote.

“Loved watching him in Orlando Magic,” another fan said.

Our thoughts remain with Hunter’s loved ones during this challenging time.

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