Former college, NBA hoops standout Darius Morris dies at 33

Sad news emerged from the world of sports over the weekend as it was learned that a former NBA and collegiate basketball standout died far before his time.

Family members confirmed the passing of former Los Angeles Lakers guard Darius Morris at the young age of 33, as the Daily Caller reports.

Loved ones confirm former athlete's death

TMZ Sports revealed that family members discovered Morris' body on Thursday.

Though relatives confirmed the tragic news, they did not offer any information on a cause of death.

The family did, however, issue a statement saying, “With great sadness, we announce the passing of our dearly beloved son, Darius Aaron Morris.”

“During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace,” the communication went on.

Impressive college career remembered

As Wolverine Digest via Sports Illustrated reports, during his two-year tenure as a hoopster at the University of Michigan, Morris was a noted passer and point guard on coach John Beilein's offense, and though the team struggled, he racked up some impressive personal statistics.

The 2010-11 season saw Morris take the Big Ten assist title, also earning All-Big Ten honors with the team.

Morris also notched a school record for single-season assists and was credited with helping the program secure commitments from star recruits who put the team on a solid footing for years to come.

Onward to the NBA, foreign leagues

After he left Ann Arbor, Morris was chosen in the NBA draft's second round, landing in Los Angeles as a member of the Lakers squad.

He toiled in L.A. for two seasons before moving on to stints with Philadelphia, the L.A. Clippers, the Brooklyn Nets, and the Memphis Grizzlies over the course of the subsequent two seasons.

Though his NBA days came to a relatively quick end, Morris made his way to China, Russia, and France, playing in various leagues in those countries, and sports fans everywhere will surely remember on-court exploits fondly while also wishing peace and closure for the loved ones he leaves behind.