By JACK BEZANTS, US DEPUTY SPORTS EDITOR
Published: 16:43 EST, 3 December 2025 | Updated: 16:43 EST, 3 December 2025
The Los Angeles Lakers great Elden Campbell tragically died after collapsing on a fishing trip, it has been revealed.
His sister Sandra said that the former NBA champion was taken ill after making it back on to land. He was only 57 at the time of his passing.
'It was all the sudden,' she told the New York Post. 'He wasn't sick. He was out fishing.'
Sandra added that she doesn't yet know the cause of her brother's death and his body is with the medical examiner.
She added: 'We don't know what happened. He was such a big pillar and a staple to our family. He is going to be terribly missed.'
Campbell spent eight seasons with the Lakers during his 15-year NBA career, which also saw him play for the Detroit Pistons, Charlotte Hornets and New Jersey Nets.
Former Los Angeles Lakers star Elden Campbell has passed away at the age of 57
Campbell spent just over eight seasons with the Lakers during his 15-year NBA career
The former center won his only NBA championship during his time in Detroit, which came in 2004 with a win over his former side, the Lakers.
Campbell, who played for Clemson University at college level, was drafted by the Lakers in the first round back in 1990 draft. He would go on to share the court with the likes of Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant.
Eight years later, Campbell was traded - along with Eddie Jones - to the Hornets, where he would remain until 2003.
During his time in the NBA, Campbell carved out a lasting legacy and sits 34th in the all time rankings for blocks.
Across his 15-year career, Campbell played in 1,044 games and averaged 10.3 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game.
In the wake of the tragic news, Campbell's former teammates have paid tribute.
Taking to Instagram, former Lakers star Cedric Ceballos said: 'This one hurt to the bone. grew up as kids together. rest BIG EASY'.
The Lakers themselves shared a picture of Campbell on their social media account on Wednesday, captioning the post: 'RIP Big Easy.'
Magic Johnson paid an emotional tribute after news of Campbell's death had emerged
A family statement on his passing added: 'He was a man to whom family meant everything - generous, funny, disciplined and kind, but could shut you down if required.
'A man of God, he passed doing what he loved; fishing out on the ocean, enjoying his idea of an ideal day.'
Magic Johnson added on X: 'I just received devastating news that my former Lakers teammate and friend Elden Campbell has passed away.
'He was such a gentle soul. As a basketball player, he was extremely athletic. I loved throwing lobs to Elden because he could jump out the gym and had so much talent!
'Cookie and I are praying for his family and Lakers Nation as they mourn during this difficult time. Rest in peace Big E!'