'Heartbroken': Former Kobe teammate dead at 33

Former NBA player Darius Morris, who spent two seasons as a teammate of Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, has died at the age 33.

His family released a statement early Sunday (AEST), announcing his death, but gave no cause.

"With great sadness we announce the passing of our dearly beloved son, Darius Aaron Morris," the statement read.

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Los Angeles Lakers' Darius Morris (1), Kobe Bryant (24) celebrate their win agains the Golden State Warriors at Oracle Arena in Oakland, Calif. on Saturday, Dec. 22, 2012. Los Angeles defeated Golden State 118-115 in overtime. (Jose Carlos Fajardo/Staff)

"During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace."

Morris made his debut with the Lakers after he was picked as 41st draft pick – the Lakers' second pick – in 2011. He left the Lakers two seasons later to join the Philadelphia 76ers, but never really found a home.

https://twitter.com/Lakers/status/1786858994059084105

He also had stints at the LA Clippers, Memphis Grizzlies and the Brooklyn Nets. He averaged 3.3 points, 1.4 assists and a rebound from his 132 career matches. He was in the starting side on 17 occasions.

After he finished his NBA career, Morris played stints in France and China before retiring in 2020.

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