The basketball world was devastated on Monday afternoon when it was announced that G League player Zeke Upshaw passed away. Upshaw, a 26-year-old small forward for the Grand Rapids Drive, collapsed on the court during a game over the weekend and was taken to the hospital. His mother announced his death in a statement.
As is always the case when someone loses their life, it was a tragic moment, one that led to an outpouring of support from teams, players, coaches, and everyone in between. And on Thursday night, the Drive’s NBA affiliate decided to honor Upshaw with a kind gesture.
The Detroit Pistons announced that it would give Upshaw an honorary call-up for the team’s game against Washington. In a statement, Pistons general manager Jeff Bower described Upshaw as a “terrific young man.”
“Zeke was a special player for the Grand Rapids Drive and as the G League affiliate for our organization, many of our staffers had the opportunity to spend time with this terrific young man,” Bower said, according to NBA.com. “His spirit and commitment on and off the court embodied all the traits we look for in players who suit up for the Detroit Pistons. As we look to memorialize Zeke’s basketball career and continue to support his family during this tragically difficult time, executing an honorary call-up recognizes his standing as a member of the Pistons family.”
The Pistons won Thursday night’s game over the Wizards, 103-92.
