Former Arizona Wildcat forward Michael Wright was found dead of a head wound Tuesday in Brooklyn, according to the New York Daily News.
Reports indicate it is unclear whether Wright was the victim of foul play or took his own life, but an autopsy has been scheduled.
Wright played at Arizona for three seasons, from 1998-99 to 2000-01. He was drafted No. 39 overall by the New York Knicks in 2001 but wound up starting an overseas career in Poland. He also played extensively in Turkey, and later assumed a Turkish citizenship under the name Ali Karadeniz.
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Memphis coach Josh Pastner, who was close to him as a player and an undergraduate assistant coach during Wright's years with the Wildcats, said via text message that he was saddened by the news. Pastner had kept in touch with Wright but said he had not spoken with him for several months.
"Loved Michael," Pastner said. "He played so hard, helped us win so many games. Always had the back of the person who was the underdog. He was a good human being. He is going to be really missed."
The UA basketball program offered its condolences via Twitter.Â
Very saddened by the news of former Wildcat Michael Wright's passing. He and his family are in our thoughts. #RIP pic.twitter.com/EE5N0DW2I5
— Arizona Basketball (@APlayersProgram) November 11, 2015
