Drew Gordon, the older brother of Denver Nuggets star Aaron Gordon, died in a car accident in Portland, Oregon on Thursday, May 30, 2024, his agent Calvin Andrews confirmed. Gordon was 33 years old.
Born in San Jose, California, Drew Gordon made a name for himself at Archbishop Mitty High School, where he was ranked in the top 50 of the class of 2008. His talent and hard work earned him a spot at UCLA, and his subsequent transfer to New Mexico solidified his status as a formidable player.
Gordon had a notable collegiate basketball career, starting at UCLA. Highly sought after by top programs like Duke, North Carolina, and Arizona, he chose UCLA but transferred to the University of New Mexico after two seasons.
While at New Mexico, he averaged over 13 points and 10 rebounds per game, gaining attention and attracting NBA interest. His impact was deeply felt during his senior year, where he led the Mountain West in rebounding with 11.1 per game. He also helped the Lobos to a Mountain West Championship and an appearance in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.
Despite his college success, Gordon went un-drafted in the 2012 NBA Draft. He played for the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Summer League, which led to various professional opportunities. Gordon’s career included stints in the G League and international leagues. His only NBA tenure was with the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season, where he appeared in nine games before being waived in December 2014.
Gordon spent almost a decade playing professional basketball internationally, including in Italy, France, Turkey, Japan, Serbia, Lithuania, Poland, Ukraine, and Russia. One highlight of his overseas career was being named an All-Star in France in 2015 while playing for Champagne Châlons-Reims.
In 2023, Gordon retired from professional basketball, leaving a legacy of determination and international success.
Gordon’s passing has left a significant void in the basketball community and among his family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Angela, and their three children. His younger brother, Aaron Gordon, plays for the Denver Nuggets and is known for his high-flying dunks.
“Drew was more than just a brother to me,” Aaron Gordon shared. “He was my role model and my biggest supporter. Words can’t express how much he will be missed.”
The Denver Nuggets organization expressed their condolences, stating, “Drew left this world far too soon, but his legacy will endure through his three wonderful children and all his loved ones.”