Drew Gordon, a former NBA forward and the brother of Denver Nuggets player Aaron Gordon, passed away in a tragic car accident on Thursday at the age of 33.
Authorities reported that Gordon was driving a Vanderhall Carmel three-wheeled autocycle when he collided with a GMC Sierra pickup. The driver of the GMC, aged 25, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to a local hospital, while Gordon unfortunately did not survive the accident, as confirmed by Oregon’s Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office.
Initial findings from the investigation suggest that Gordon’s vehicle veered over the center line, leading to the collision with the GMC. Although the incident is still being looked into, it is believed that Gordon was not under the influence of any impairing substances.
Having honed his basketball skills in San Jose, Gordon played college basketball at UCLA before transferring to the University of New Mexico. He went undrafted in 2012 but later signed with Serbia’s Partizan Belgrade. Gordon also had stints with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2014 and played for teams in various countries before retiring in 2023.
He is survived by his wife and three children.
The Denver Nuggets, where Gordon’s younger brother has been a player since 2021, paid tribute to the player and his children. “Drew was taken from us too soon, but his memory will live on through his three wonderful children and all those who loved him,” the Denver Nuggets expressed in a statement. “Our thoughts are with Aaron and the Gordon family during this incredibly challenging time.”
The Philadelphia 76ers also offered their condolences, stating on X, “Our hearts go out to the Gordon family and their loved ones.”
