Tragic Loss: NBA Star Ryan Reid, 38, Remembered by Teammates

Lauderdale Lakes, USA - On July 9, the basketball community mourned the unexpected loss of Ryan Reid, a former player for Florida State University (FSU) and a brief member of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Reid passed away at just 38 years old following a medical emergency. Known for his defensive prowess and strong teamwork, Reid left an indelible mark on both his college career from 2006 to 2010 and his time in the NBA.

In the spring of 2012, Reid was part of a Thunder squad that reached the NBA Finals for the first time since the franchise rebranded from its previous identity as the Seattle SuperSonics. The team featured notable players like Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden. Kendrick Perkins, a former teammate and current ESPN analyst, paid tribute to Reid on Instagram, recalling fond memories of their time together and highlighting the void left by Reid’s passing. This heartfelt acknowledgment showcases the high esteem in which Reid was held by his peers (Yardbarker).

College Career and Legacy

Reid’s journey began at FSU, where he was a prominent figure under head coach Leonard Hamilton. A four-star recruit and top-100 prospect, he played a crucial role in helping the Seminoles make two NCAA tournament appearances and two NIT appearances. Over his college career, Reid amassed 624 points and 490 rebounds, all while averaging 5.0 points and 3.7 rebounds per game. His importance to the team extended beyond statistics; he was lauded for his work ethic and leadership on and off the court (Palm Beach Post).

After being drafted by the Indiana Pacers in the second round of the 2010 NBA Draft, Reid was soon traded to the Thunder. His professional career spanned nine years, with him playing in various countries including France, Canada, Puerto Rico, and Japan, where his last stop was the Kanazawa Samuraiz. Recently, he had attended Leonard Hamilton’s final game at the Tucker Center, a moving testament to his enduring connection to the program.

Luke Loucks, the new head coach at FSU, released a statement honoring Reid, calling him a “mountain of a man.” Loucks emphasized Reid’s qualities as a competitor, teammate, and leader, expressing gratitude for their shared experiences and emphasizing Reid’s lasting legacy within the community. It’s clear that the impact Reid had extended beyond the court and into the lives of many (Palm Beach Post).

Florida State’s NBA Legacy

The legacy of FSU basketball is rich, with numerous alumni making significant impacts in the NBA. The school is known for producing top talent, including Dwyane Wade, who was drafted fifth overall in 2003 and won three NBA championships. Ryan Reid adds to this legacy, as he is part of a larger group of successful players that have emerged from the program, which has seen 39 alumni play in the NBA (SportsDayNow).

• Dwyane Wade: 5th overall pick, 3-time NBA champion.
• Al Thornton: 14th overall pick, averaged over 12 points per game.
• Sam Cassell: Only FSU alumnus to be named an NBA All-Star (2004).
• Udonis Haslem: A Miami Heat stalwart since 2003 with 3 championships.

With five active players currently in the league, FSU shows no signs of slowing down. Young talents like Michael Snaer and Okaro White hint at a promising future, while legends like Anfernee Hardaway and Jason Williams remain part of the storied history. Ryan Reid’s contribution to this legacy, though brief, will not be forgotten. His passing is a poignant reminder of the bonds forged through sport and the lives that are intertwined in the world of basketball.

As we reflect on Reid’s journey and the impact he made, it’s clear that his spirit will always resonate through the halls of FSU and within the hearts of those who had the pleasure to know him.