NBA star RJ Barrett is granted personal leave from the Toronto Raptors ‘following the shock death of his younger brother Nathan’ – as former coach reveals news on social media

RJ Barrett will miss the Toronto Raptors’ game against the Orlando Magic on Friday following the sudden death of his younger brother Nathan.

It was reported on Thursday that Barrett, 23, will miss his second straight match due to personal reasons. Hours later, news of the passing of Nathan, four years RJ’s junior, surfaced with a heartfelt tribute from former coach Chris Stewart.

Stewart coached the Barretts at the Mississauga Monarchs in their native Canada.

“On March 12, my extended Monarch family lost another member, Nathan Barrett,” Stewart wrote on Instagram. “It’s hard to believe this is the second time this has happened to my family and basketball community. Nathan was only with us for a short time in 7th grade before moving to Florida, but whenever he was back in Mississauga the boys kept in touch.

“I saw Nathan last summer, all grown up, with a big smile and he excitedly told me how he was going to school to become a pilot. I always tell my former players that if you were on my team for even one season, you will always be my family and don’t forget that.”

Former coach Chris Stewart wrote a heartfelt tribute to Nathan on Instagram after his death

Barrett will miss his second straight game with the Raptors sitting 12th in the Eastern Conference

“If you have had the pleasure of knowing this family, you know how much they do for the basketball community, so please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. No parent should ever have to bury a child, hug your children a little longer today. You will be missed Nathan, RIP.”

Thursday evening basketball the Raptors and Canada released a statement of the Barrett family.

“It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the loss of our beloved son and brother, Nathan Tyler Barrett, who passed away on Tuesday, March 12, surrounded by his family, church and friends,” the statement said.

“Although our family is devastated by this great loss, we will continue to cherish the memories and time we spent together. Nathan was a godly young man with strong character. He was thoughtful, kind, loving, compassionate, creative, admirable and driven.

“During this difficult time, our family requests privacy and deeply appreciates the outpouring of love, support and prayers we have received. Although his time with us was short, he will live on in our hearts forever.”

Nathan’s cause of death has not been released. Nathan was RJ’s only sibling.

Although his Instagram page is private, Nathan’s bio has the Bible verse “Jeremiah 29:11” at the top and “Aspiring Pilot” after the Canadian and Jamaican flags. He also wrote ‘Toronto/Miami’ at the bottom.