The former Portland Trail Blazers forward, Jerome Kersey has passed at the age of 52, with the reason for death not announced at this time. Kersey helped lead the Blazers to 2 NBA Finals, and won the Finals with the San Antonio Spurs. Kersey touched the lives of many, and Blazers owner Paul Allen, had the following to say on Kersey’s death.

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

Former teammate of Jerome Kersey, Clyde Drexler, had the following to say.

”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,” Drexler said. ”This is unbelievable.”

Blazers president Chris McGowan released the following statement on the passing of Kersey.

”The news is so sudden, and we’re sure more details will be forthcoming,”  Chris McGowan said. ”But it is indeed a sad day for our organization, the city of Portland and the NBA. Jerome will be remembered not only for his incredible contributions on the court, but his tremendous impact in our community.”

Some NBA players shared their condolences on social media, including Blazers star Damian Lillard.

Kersey enjoyed a 17 year career with the Portland Trail Blazers, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers. Seattle Super Sonics (Oklahoma City Thunder), San Antonio Spurs, and the Milwaukee Bucks. Kersey averaged 10.3 points, 1.9 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game over the course of his career. Kersey’s best year as a pro was with the Trail Blazers in 1987-1988, where he averaged 19.2 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game.

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