Michael Ojo, a Nigerian basketball player who previously played for Red Star Belgrade, died at the age of 27 during a training session in the Serbian capital on Friday, the club said.
“We are deeply
saddened by the news”, Red Star’s spokesperson Igor Vujicin told AFP.
The club couldn’t
confirm the cause of death, but local media reported that Ojo suffered a heart
attack.
Born in Lagos, the
2.16 metre (7ft 1in) centre played for Florida State University in the United
States before coming to Europe to start his professional career.
After a stint with
the Belgrade team FMP Zeleznik, he moved to European giants Red Star, where he
spent two seasons, quickly becoming a fan favourite.
Ojo had been
without a club since June 30 but was training in Belgrade.
His former team
released a statement mourning the loss of the “cheerful giant”.
“The sudden and
shocking death of Michael Ojo has deeply affected everyone—players, coaches and
the management of a club that accepted him from the first day, and that he
considered his own,” Red Star said.
EuroLeague also
extended condolences to Ojo’s family, teammates, coaches, “and many fans who enjoyed
his performances”.