Sean Rooks former University of Arizona basketball player and assistant coach for the Philadelphia 76ers, passed away Tuesday at the age of 46 according to the Arizona Basketball twitter.
Very saddened to hear of the passing of former Wildcat Sean Rooks. He and his family are in our thoughts. #RIP pic.twitter.com/PjQwlJcpZD
— Arizona Basketball (@APlayersProgram) June 8, 2016
Rooks played for Arizona from 1988 to 1992 and then spent over a decade in the NBA.
He was a second round draft pick in 1992 by the Dallas Mavericks.
The cause of his death is unknown at this time.
The Philadelphia 76ers released a statement from Deborah Brown, the mother of Rooks, on Tuesday night:
"It is with deep sadness and overwhelming grief that we mourn the sudden loss of my son, Sean. Our family asks that our privacy be respected as we grieve during this incredibly difficult time."
Former Arizona Basketball Coach Lute Olson also commented on the passing of Sean Rooks saying in a statement:
“This is just a horrible shock. Sean was such a wonderful young man with a great disposition. During his time at Arizona, he was always one of the most pleasant individuals to be around. His positivity was something I’ll always remember. This is a tough day and a terrible loss for Arizona basketball. We send our condolences to Sean’s family and friends.”
Sean Rooks is a great Wildcat. He will be missed by many. We send our thoughts & prayers to his family & friends. pic.twitter.com/axrzPCpRLD
— Greg Byrne (@Greg_Byrne) June 8, 2016
Man I'm hurting rt now. My friend Sean Rooks passed away. I can't believe it. He watched out for me. Great person and father. Gone too soon
— Miles Simon (@milessimon) June 8, 2016
