Former Trail Blazers Legend Jerome Kersey Dies at 52

By Cheri Cheng - 19 Feb '15 10:47AM

Former Portland Trail Blazers, Jerome Kersey has passed away at the age of 52, the team confirmed Wednesday. The cause of death has not been released.

"Today we lost an incredible person and one of the most beloved players to ever wear a Trail Blazers uniform," Blazers owner Paul Allen said in a statement. "My thoughts and condolences are with the Kersey family. He will be missed by all of us. It's a terrible loss."

The legendary player played 17 seasons in the league and averaged 10.3 points and 5.5 rebounds. His best season was in 1987-88 when he averaged 19.2 points and 8.3 rebounds. Kersey spent 11 of those years with the Trail Blazers and helped lead them to two NBA finals in 1990 and 1992. On the Portland's all-time list, Kersey is second in career games (831), third in minutes played (21,400), second in rebounds (5,078), third in steals (1,059) and fifth in points (10,067).

Kersey won a championship in 1999 with the San Antonio Spurs and retired in 2001. In 2004-05, Kersey was the assistant coach in Milwaukee.

His death has shocked many throughout the basketball world. Here are some of the reactions:

"He was the greatest guy, the nicest friend, teammate and brother. He was loved by everyone. We will all miss him. He just cared so much," former teammate Clyde Drexler told Comcast SportsNet Northwest. "This is unbelievable."

"The news is so sudden, and we're sure more details will be forthcoming," Blazers President Chris McGowan said. "But it is indeed a sad day for our organization, the city of Portland and the NBA.

Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard tweeted, "Spoke to him regularly about life and the ups and downs of a NBA season. Gone too soon, much love!" Others who posted their condolences included Kobe Bryant and Vince Carter.

Ex-NBA player and current mayor of Sacramento, Kevin Johnson tweeted, "Sad to hear about the passing of Jerome Kersey. Thoughts and prayers to his family and friends. Rest in peace."

Kersey is survived by his wife, Teri and their four daughters.