Nathan Tyler Barrett, the younger brother of former Knicks star and current Raptor RJ Barrett, died on Tuesday, the Raptors and Canada Basketball confirmed through a statement released on behalf of the Barrett family.
Nathan passed away surrounded by family, church and friends, the statement said.
No details surrounding his death have been released to the public.
“While our family is devastated by this great loss, we will continue to cherish the memories and time spent together,” the Barrett family said in the statement. “Nathan was a God-fearing young man of strong character. He was thoughtful, kind, loving, compassionate, creative, admirable, and driven.”
The family asked the public for privacy at this time but “greatly appreciates the outpouring of love, support and prayers that we have been receiving.”
Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau opened up about Nathan’s death before Thursday’s game in Portland.
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“Before we get started on behalf of our organization, our team, we’d like to send our heartfelt condolences to the Barrett family on the loss of their son, Nathan, RJ’s brother,” he said. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to them, the entire family.”
Nathan played guard at Montverde Academy and dreamed of becoming a pilot, TMZ reported.
The younger Barrett brother’s former youth coach, Chris Stewart, paid tribute to him in a post on his Instagram page.
Toronto Raptors guard RJ Barrett (9) dribbles the ball in the first half against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports “Nathan was only with us for a short time in grade 7 before he moved to Florida but whenever he was back in Mississauga the boys connected,” he wrote. “No parent should ever have to bury a child, hug your kids today a little longer. You will be missed Nathan, RIP”
RJ and Nathan Barrett are the sons of Canada Basketball general manager Rowan Barrett.
RJ, who was drafted third overall by the Knicks in 2019 and spent parts of five seasons with the organization, did not play on Wednesday for the Raptors and is also expected to miss their game on Friday night.
He was traded to the Raptors on Dec. 30 as part of the deal that brought OG Anunoby to New York.
