Basketball Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen’s son Antron Pippen died at the age of 33.
Scottie announced the death on his social media platforms, stating that his oldest child died Sunday. However, he did not mention the cause of Antron’s death.
On Monday, Scottie wrote, “I’m heartbroken to share that yesterday, I said goodbye to my firstborn son Antron. The two of us shared a love for basketball and we had countless conversations about the game.”
“Antron suffered from chronic asthma and if he hadn’t had it, I truly believe he would’ve made it to the NBA,” he added. “He never let that get him down, though — Antron stayed positive and worked hard, and I am so proud of the man that he became.”
Antron was an accomplished high school player in Georgia. He played college basketball at South Georgia Tech and Texas A&M International.
South Georgia Tech athletic department tweeted, “The Jets family was saddened to learn of the death of one of our former players, Antron Pippen.”
At one point, Antron was listed among the top 100 prospects at his age level.
In 2006, as a high school player, Antron told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, “I’m used to the expectations. When I was younger, it bothered me. I was trying to prove to people that I could play. I’m very proud of my father. But I can only be myself.”
Antron was the oldest son of Scottie. He was the only child from Scottie’s first marriage to Karen McCollum.
Scottie wrote, “Please keep his mom, Karen, and all of his family and friends in your thoughts and prayers. A kind heart and beautiful soul gone way too soon. I love you, son, rest easy until we meet again.” The news was reported on WZDX Fox.
