Nick Gilbert, son of Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert, died at 26.
Photo Credits: Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images
Nick Gilbert, who had been diagnosed with neurofibromatosis (NF1) in early childhood, died at the age of 26 on Saturday, according to this source. Nick, known as the Cleveland Cavaliers representative at the 2011 NBA draft lottery, died “peacefully at home surrounded by family”, an official statement reads, as noted by The Guardian.
RIP Nick Gilbert, the legend.
This one hurts. ? pic.twitter.com/CDQqsbVcLy— McNeil (@Reflog_18) May 7, 2023
According to the same sources, Nick Gilbert continued representing the team at several other lotteries and won two other times. Additionally, the 2022-2023 season was dedicated to him by the Cavaliers.
Several people shared their thoughts and condolences online regarding the young man’s death.
“Sonia and I were devastated this morning by the news that Dan and Jennifer Gilbert lost their beautiful son, Nick. Nick inspired people everywhere with his bravery and brought joy to everyone he met. All of Detroit has the Gilbert family in our prayers today.” the mayor of Detroit, Mike Duggan, tweeted.
“Rest easy king! You brought so much Joy to everyone you encountered! Sending blessing to the Gilbert family!,” Joe Haden tweeted.
Neurofibromatosis
According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, neurofibromatosis is “a rare genetic disorder” that causes non-cancerous tumors to appear in several parts of the body. NF1, the type of neurofibromatosis Nick Gilbert was diagnosed with in his early childhood, usually “results from gene mutations that occur for unknown reasons”.
Published by HOLR Magazine.