The basketball world is in mourning following the passing of former NBA centre Elden Campbell. The Los Angeles Lakers legend, who was a key figure in the team's 1990s roster, has died at the age of 57. His death was confirmed by his alma mater, Clemson University, in a social media post, as first reported by the Los Angeles Times.
A Legacy Forged in Los Angeles
Elden Campbell's journey to the NBA began at Morningside High School in Inglewood. He then starred for four seasons at Clemson University, where he still holds the record as the all-time leading scorer for the Tigers, averaging 15.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game. His defensive prowess was evident early on.
The Los Angeles Lakers selected him with the 27th overall pick in the 1990 NBA Draft. Campbell would go on to spend eight full seasons with the franchise, becoming a prominent contributor on the early squads that featured the legendary duo of Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant in the late 1990s.
The $49 Million Question: A Lakers Financial Misstep?
While Campbell was a reliable player, his legacy with the Lakers is often intertwined with a major financial decision. The franchise, known for its fiscal responsibility, signed Campbell to a seven-year, $49 million contract. Although he led the team in scoring for several seasons and was valued for his consistent effort and shot-blocking, he never evolved into the superstar many had projected.
As a result, this contract is frequently cited as one of the rare financial mistakes in Lakers history. He was traded to the Charlotte Hornets midway through the 1999 season. Campbell's career spanned 15 years, including stints with the Charlotte Hornets, Seattle Supersonics, New Jersey Nets, and finally, the Detroit Pistons.
It was with the 2003-04 Detroit Pistons that Campbell achieved the pinnacle of team success, winning his sole NBA Championship after the Pistons famously upset the Lakers in a five-game Finals series.
Magic Johnson's Heartfelt Tribute
News of Campbell's passing prompted an outpouring of grief from former teammates and fans. Lakers icon Magic Johnson shared a moving tribute on social media platform X. Johnson, who played with Campbell for two seasons and briefly coached him in the 1993-94 season, expressed his devastation.
"I just received devastating news that my former Lakers teammate and friend Elden Campbell has passed away," Johnson wrote. "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!"
The exact cause of Elden Campbell's death is currently unknown. The basketball community remembers him not just for the contract debate, but as a gentle soul, a defensive force, and a crucial part of an era in Lakers history.
