Sixth-year NBA guard RJ Barrett has broken his silence on the death of his 19-year-old brother Nathan Barrett.
The younger brother of the Toronto Raptors star passed away earlier this month. Barrett said he still calls and texts his brother, who he said was his best friend.
“You know, he was my best friend,” Barrett said Friday of her late brother. “I miss him all the time. I still text him.
“I still call every once in a while, but yeah, it’s been a tough time, but I appreciate the support from everyone. And definitely the Raptors for giving me that time and just coming back.” They’re welcoming.” ”
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RJ Barrett of the Toronto Raptors dribbles during a game against the Denver Nuggets on March 11 at Ball Arena in Denver. (Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Barrett, who has spent most of his professional basketball career with the New York Knicks, spoke emotionally about how he is getting through difficult times.
“There were some people in my life, but this was a bit of a shock to me,” he said of Nathan’s death. “This is obviously a little different and a lot more difficult. I think we have to move forward every day and try to figure it out.”
Barrett said he just wants his brother to continue playing basketball.
“If you know my brother, he would want me to be here, play and try to continue to grow the Barrett legacy,” he said.
Toronto Raptors guard RJ Barrett drives with Charlotte Hornets guard Tre Mann during a game at Scotiabank Arena on March 3 in Toronto. (Cole Burston/Getty Images)
Nathan’s cause of death has not been disclosed.
A statement from the Barrett family released by the Raptors and Basketball Association of Canada read: “Our family is devastated by this great loss, but we will cherish the memories and time we spent together.” “Nathan was a God-fearing young man of strong character. He was thoughtful, kind, loving, compassionate, creative, admirable and motivated.”
Nathan followed in his older brother’s footsteps and played basketball in high school in Florida. He was also studying to become a pilot one day.
“He’s growing up so fast. Every time I see him, he’s getting taller and he’s starting to wear my shoes, which is crazy,” Barrett told the newspaper last June. “He’s more of a point guard, but he’s really aggressive.”
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Barrett was the No. 3 overall pick in the 2019 draft and has appeared in 27 games with Toronto this season, averaging 20.8 points and 6.2 rebounds per game.
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