Former Arizona Wildcats standout Sean Rooks has died, according to multiple reports from Philadelphia media outlets. He was 46.
Former UA coach Lute Olson called Rooks' death "a horrible shock." No cause of death has been announced.
"Sean was such a wonderful young man with a great disposition," he said in a statement released by the UA Tuesday evening. "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.”
Said athletic director Greg Byrne: “The passing of Sean Rooks marks another sad day for Arizona Athletics. Sean is one of the great Wildcats, both as a player and person, and he will be missed by many. We want to send our thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.”
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Rooks had been serving as a Philadelphia 76ers player development coach until earlier this month, when he was informed that his contract was not being renewed. UA product T.J. McConnell, a Sixers point guard, tweeted today that Rooks was "the best Wildcat. RIP."
The 6-foot-10-inch Rooks played for Arizona from 1988 to 1992, averaging 11.6 points and 5.0 rebounds per game, and was the No. 30 overall pick in the 1992 NBA draft. He played 12 seasons with the Magic, Timberwolves, Lakers, Clippers, Hornets and Magic. He began coaching in 2007.
The UA recruited Rooks' son, Kameron, in 2012 but he ultimately chose Cal.
