PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Former NBA center and Philadelphia 76ers assistant coach Sean Rooks has died. He was 46.
The team released a statement from Deborah Brown, the mother of Rooks, on Tuesday night: "It is with deep sadness and overwhelming grief that we mourn the sudden loss of my son, Sean. Our family asks that our privacy be respected as we grieve during this incredibly difficult time."
Rooks played 12 seasons after being selected in the second round of the NBA draft by Dallas in 1992. He averaged 6.2 points in 749 games with seven teams. Rooks spent the past two years working as an assistant on Brett Brown's staff in Philadelphia.
Rooks spent three seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers and the team released a statement from co-owner Jeannie Buss. "During his time with the Lakers he was a true professional and was a favorite among teammates, coaches and staff. Sean was a friendly guy that everyone loved having around. On behalf of the entire Lakers organization, I'd like to send our condolences as well as thoughts and prayers to his family."
