Elden Campbell’s Cause of Death Confirmed

The medical examiner in Florida has ruled that Elden Campbell’s death was due to accidental drowning.

The former center for the Los Angeles Lakers was declared dead on December 1 at 8:03 p.m., according to a report from TMZ. Details surrounding the incident remain vague, with no further information disclosed.

In a heartfelt statement, Campbell’s family shared, “Mr. Elden was a man of faith who trusted in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was a husband, father, brother, cousin, and friend.” They emphasized his role as a devoted family man, describing him as generous, funny, disciplined, and kind but someone who could be firm when necessary.

They added, “A man of God, he spent his time doing what he loved, fishing in the ocean and enjoying an ideal day.”

TMZ noted that a former teammate was the first to report his passing.

During his 15-year NBA career, Campbell spent over eight seasons with the Lakers and even won a championship ring with the Detroit Pistons in 2004. His career also included stints with the Charlotte Hornets and New Jersey Nets, where he played alongside stars like Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant.

Campbell left an impressive mark in the league, ranking 37th on the all-time blocks list. He is survived by his wife, four children, and three brothers.