Former NBA player Darius Morris, who played for the Los Angeles Lakers and several other teams, tragically passed away at the age of 33. The Los Angeles County medical examiner revealed that Morris died from coronary artery disease, with the effects of cocaine, hydrocodone, and ethanol significantly contributing to his death. This lethal combination ultimately led to a fatal heart condition, and his death was ruled accidental.
The circumstances surrounding Morris’ death were sorrowful. He was discovered deceased in a Los Angeles-area apartment on May 2 following a welfare check. His body showed signs of decomposition, and no drugs were found at the scene. The last known contact with his family was on April 22, when he reported feeling flu-like symptoms.
Morris’s death comes during a turbulent time for his family. Earlier this year, his father, Dewayne Morris Sr., and brother, Dewayne Morris Jr., were convicted of conspiracy and bank fraud. This legal battle undoubtedly added to the stress and turmoil in Morris’ life.
Despite his untimely death and personal challenges, Morris is remembered for his infectious personality and passion for basketball. He approached his NBA career with enthusiasm, aiming to enjoy every moment. His tragic death serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and pressures professional athletes often endure. The basketball community mourns his loss and reflects on his contributions both on and off the court.
Darius Morris’ NBA Career
Darius Morris, a former NBA point guard, had a career that saw him play for several teams after being drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round of the 2011 NBA Draft. Morris, who played college basketball at the University of Michigan, was known for his playmaking ability and court vision.
During his NBA career, Morris played for the Lakers, Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Clippers, Memphis Grizzlies, Brooklyn Nets, and Houston Rockets. He also had stints overseas in China and France. In the NBA, he played a total of 132 regular-season games, starting 17 of them. Over his career, he averaged 3.3 points, 1.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game.
Morris’ best season came in 2012-2013 with the Lakers. That year, he played in 48 games and started 17, due to injuries to key players like Steve Nash and Steve Blake. Morris averaged a career-high 4.0 points, 1.2 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game that season. He also played significant minutes in the playoffs, where he had a standout performance in Game 3 of the Western Conference first round against the San Antonio Spurs, scoring 24 points and dishing out 6 assists.
In addition to his NBA career, Morris played in the NBA Development League (now known as the G League) for teams such as the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, where he continued to showcase his skills and work towards returning to the NBA. Throughout his career, Morris was known for his solid ball-handling, defensive efforts, and ability to facilitate offense. While his NBA career statistics may not reflect star-level production, his contributions during critical moments, especially during the Lakers’ injury-plagued 2012-2013 season, highlighted his potential and determination.
His career serves as a reminder of the hard work and perseverance required to compete at the highest levels of the sport.
Rest in peace, Darius Morris.