LandonBuford.com Staff
The basketball world is in mourning as it bids farewell to one of its own. Former NBA player Brandon Hunter, who was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 2003, tragically passed away at the age of 42. His untimely death has left fans, friends, and the basketball community in shock and sadness.
Jeff Boals, the head men’s basketball coach at Ohio University, where Hunter played college basketball, paid a heartfelt tribute to the late athlete on social media. Boals, reflecting on Hunter’s legacy, posted on his Instagram story, “RIP to a Bobcat great. Gone way too soon.” These words echo the sentiments of many who knew and admired Brandon Hunter.
Born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, Brandon Hunter‘s basketball journey was nothing short of remarkable. He was selected by the Boston Celtics as the 56th overall pick in the second round of the 2003 NBA draft. Standing at 6-foot-7, Hunter made a name for himself as a dynamic power forward.
Hunter’s college career at Ohio University was a testament to his talent and dedication to the game. He earned the distinction of being a three-time First Team All-MAC player, showcasing his prowess on the court. In his senior season, Hunter’s impressive stats included an average of 21.5 points per game and a staggering 12.6 rebounds per game, leading the NCAA Division I in the latter category. He concluded his college career with an impressive 2,000 points and 1,000 rebounds.
Brandon Hunter‘s professional journey began with the Boston Celtics in his rookie year, where he played in 36 games and started 12. He averaged 3.5 points and 3.3 rebounds per game during his rookie campaign. However, his time with the Celtics was short-lived, as he was left unprotected in the 2004 NBA expansion draft and subsequently selected by the Charlotte Bobcats.
Hunter’s NBA career saw him make stops with the Orlando Magic and the Milwaukee Bucks. Despite his journey through different teams, his passion for the game remained unwavering. His former teammate, T.J. Ford, shared on social media, “We just spoke last week. Losing a lot of my friends lately.”
After his time in the NBA, Hunter transitioned into the world of sports management. In June 2021, he founded Hunter Athlete Management, a sports agency representing professional athletes and coaches worldwide. This venture allowed him to continue his love for the game while helping others navigate their careers.
Brandon Hunter’s passing leaves a void in the basketball community, but his legacy lives on through his contributions to the sport and his dedication to helping athletes achieve their dreams. As fans, friends, and colleagues mourn his loss, we remember not only the talented athlete but also the passionate individual who made an impact both on and off the court.
The basketball world joins in expressing its deepest condolences to Brandon Hunter’s family and loved ones. His memory will forever be etched in the annals of the sport, a testament to the enduring power of basketball to inspire and unite us all.
