Grief struck the NBA world on Saturday as the hoops community faced the unfortunate passing of a young brave heart. Fans and legends across franchises flooded social media, paying respects to the 26-year-old. Notably, the Dubs star Draymond Green, the Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell, and the Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson expressed their condolences to the family via social media.

The Cleveland Cavaliers owner, Dan Gilbert’s son, Nick Gilbert, suffered from neurofibromatosis, a rare genetic disorder, since childhood. After battling the illness for a long time Gilbert took his last breath on Saturday, as announced by the Ira Kaufman Chapel. The funeral home wrote, “Nick died peacefully at home surrounded by family.”

Draymond Green, Magic Johnson, and Donovan Mitchell pay their respects to Nick

After the tragic news surfaced on the internet, fans, players, and legends in the NBA world mourned the loss. Hall of Famer Magic Johnson took to his Twitter and wrote, “Cookie and I are praying for Dan Gilbert and the entire Gilbert family following the passing of his son Nick.” 

Following suit, Draymond Green, and Donovan Mitchell took to their Instagram stories and shared their grief. Mitchell also added, “Love You Nick,” in his story.

Moreover, loyal NBA fans remembered the 26-year-old as the lucky mascot for the Cavs during the NBA draft lottery.  

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The young brave heart went through multiple surgeries and chemotherapies to remove the tumors in his body. Unfortunately, this rare disorder doesn’t have a cure yet. The Cavs started a campaign named ‘Bow Tie Campaign’ ahead of the current NBA season, to spread awareness and help people suffering from neurofibromatosis. Incidentally, the Cavs’ draft lottery lucky charm usually sported a bowtie and rimmed glasses to the event.

Nick Gilbert’s iconic Kyrie Irving pick

In 2011, after the exit of LeBron James from the franchise, Nick Gilbert impressed the Cavs fans with his draft lottery debut. He managed to get the first pick and eventually pulled Kyrie Irving into the franchise. Following that, he made his appearance in every draft lottery with his iconic bowtie and glasses, helping his team get the best pick. 

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The unfortunate passing of Nick Gilbert is undoubtedly heartbreaking. Nevertheless, his contribution to the Cavs family will forever be etched on fans’ minds.