Sean Rooks, former NBA center and Philadelphia 76ers assistant coach, passed away Tuesday (June 8) at the age of 46. The 6’10” Rooks established himself as an NBA veteran throughout his 12 year career. Despite only averaging 6.2 points and 3.8 rebounds per game during his time with the NBA, Rooks ended up playing for seven different franchises.
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These teams include the Dallas Mavericks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, New Orleans Hornets, and Orlando Magic. He played in the league from 1992-2004, with his best year statistically coming during his rookie season when he averaged 13.5 points and 7.4 rebounds.
Rooks went on to become a coach after his playing days were over. He started out with the Phoenix Suns and ended up moving to the NBA Development League where he helped coach the Sioux Falls Skyforce, New Mexico Thunderbirds, and Bakersfield Jam. His most recent job was for the Philadelphia 76ers where he acted as a player development assistant/assistant coach before the start of the 2014-15 season.
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The death was shocking and sudden and the whole NBA mourns the loss of Rooks who was known around the league for being a great teammate and coach.
Sean Rooks: Rest In Heaven My Friend! pic.twitter.com/y9krSHK6Yb
— SHAQ (@SHAQ) 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
The following is a statement from co-Managing Owners Josh Harris and David Blitzer on the passing of Sean Rooks: pic.twitter.com/VvQjghHbKG
— Philadelphia 76ers (@Sixers) June 8, 2016