Zeke Upshaw dead at 26: NBA G-League star dies after collapsing during Grand Rapids Drive game

NBA G-League star Zeke Upshaw has died aged 26 after collapsing on the court during Grand Rapids Drive game.

Upshaw slumped to the hardwood in the final minute of a game against the Long Island Nets on Saturday night.

In a tragic turn of events, he was pronounced as dead on Monday, leaving his family, team and basketball world in shock.

Upshaw's mother, Jewel, released a statement on Monday, tweeted by the Drive, saying: “After continued efforts from the medical team at Spectrum Health, Zeke made his transition at 11:16am.

"To family, friends, teammates, coaches, fans and confidants, thank you for your prayers and support during this most difficult time."

Meanwhile, the Grand Rapids Drive - an affiliate of NBA side the Detroit Pistons, who boast the likes of Blake Griffin on their roster - also released a statement.

The Drive's statement read: "The Drive family is mourning the tragic loss of Zeke Upshaw.

"He had a warm personality and was a tremendous representative of our organisation both on and off the court.

"Our thoughts are with all of Zeke’s family and friends during this difficult time."

The Pistons held a moment of silence for Upshaw for their game against the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday night.

The G-League also pushed-back the start date for its playoffs out of respect.

The development league's president Malcolm Turner had his say on Upshaw - calling his "an outstanding young man".

Turner said: "Zeke was an outstanding young man whose powerful belief in himself and uncommon perseverance led to a successful professional basketball career.

"A beloved member of the Grand Rapids Drive, Zeke's continuous improvement and tireless work ethic were hallmarks of his career.

"We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends and the Drive organisation."

A number of NBA stars shared their own messages of grief on Monday - with Pistons players even scribbling tributes on their shoes.

Meanwhile, the Pistons' NBA All-Star Andre Drummond said: "Lost a real one today.

"Tragic loss of Zeke Upshaw, my thoughts and prayers are with all of Zeke's family and friends during this difficult time.

"Rest easy my guy."

Talented Upshaw had scored 11 points in the Drive's 101-99 win over the Nets on Saturday as his team secured their spot in the playoffs.

However, with seconds left on the clock in the tight game, Upshaw could be seen slumped in the corner of the court, face down and utterly motionless.

Panic ensued as match officials realised the extent of the horror and he was promptly taken to hospital.

Unfortunately, little more than a day later, Upshaw was pronounced dead in a heart-wrenching twist of fate.

His passing has sent shock-waves through the sport, with his former college coach Joe Mihalich speaking of his pain.

Mihalich said: "Zeke was one of the kindest and hardest-working student-athletes I have had the privilege to coach.

"Zeke laid the groundwork for the success we are having now and we will never forget the impact he had on Hofstra basketball.

"Our entire program is heartbroken that he is no longer with us but his influence will continue to be felt throughout the Pride family."

The 6ft 6ins Upshaw went undrafted in the 2014 draft before playing in Slovenia and Luxembourg before heading back to the US to play in the ever-expanding G-League.