Rowan Alexander “RJ” Barrett Jr., born on June 14, 2000, is a Canadian basketball prodigy currently showcasing his skills as a professional athlete for the Toronto Raptors in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Following a stellar collegiate career with the Duke Blue Devils, Barrett was drafted third overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks.
Barrett, despite admitting to being “a little rusty” in 2018, is fluent in French. He has a younger brother named Nathan, who is approximately four years his junior. Following Barrett’s departure from high school, Nathan enrolled in Montverde Academy and joined its prep basketball team.
There is significant curiosity surrounding the circumstances of RJ Barrett’s younger brother, Nathan’s, death. In this article, we will provide insight into the cause of his death. Additionally, we’ll delve into various details about RJ Barrett himself, including his family background and other pertinent information.
Cause Of Nathan Barrett’s Death
The Toronto Raptors announced the passing of Nathan Barrett, younger brother of R.J. Barrett, on Tuesday, March 12, 2024. The team did not disclose Nathan’s age or the cause of his death but stated that he was surrounded by loved ones from his family, church, and friends at the time of his passing.
In their statement, the Raptors expressed profound sadness and described Nathan as a God-fearing young man with admirable qualities such as thoughtfulness, kindness, love, compassion, creativity, and drive. The family requested privacy during this difficult time but appreciated the support and prayers they have received.
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Earlier on the same day, Nathan Barrett was declared unavailable for the upcoming game against the Orlando Magic due to personal reasons. R.J. Barrett, previously drafted third overall from Duke University, is currently in his fifth NBA season. Three months ago, he was traded from the New York Knicks to the Toronto Raptors as part of the OG Anunoby transaction. Over 27 games with his hometown team, Barrett is recording impressive statistics, averaging 20.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game.
More About RJ Barrett’s Family
Rowan Barrett, father of Barrett, was born to Jamaican parents and grew up in Toronto. He played college basketball at St. John’s University before pursuing a professional career in Europe and South America. Rowan Sr. had a significant presence in the Canadian national team, leading it as captain during the 2000 Summer Olympics. Later, he assumed the role of executive vice president and general manager of Canada Basketball.
Barrett is Steve Nash’s godson, a Basketball Hall of Fame inductee and former head coach of the Brooklyn Nets, who had previously played alongside Rowan Sr. in the Canadian national team. Their relationship dates back to their time together on the under-19 national team, where they formed a strong bond. Nash even bought Barrett his first crib when he was a baby.
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Kesha Duhaney, Barrett’s mother, hails from Brooklyn, New York. She was a standout athlete in sprinting and long jumping at St. John’s University before transitioning to a career at the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce. Kesha and Rowan Sr. met while attending St. John’s. On her side of the family, Barrett’s maternal aunt, Dahlia Duhaney, achieved success as a member of Jamaica’s 4 × 100 m relay team, winning gold at the 1991 IAAF World Championships.