NBA Champion Elden Campbell’s Cause of Death Revealed After Fishing Tragedy at Age 57

A cause of death has been confirmed for NBA champion Elden Campbell, who died after suffering a medical emergency while fishing.

Campbell, 57, died on Monday, Dec. 1 from drowning, according to Thomas Steinkamp, chief of investigative services for Broward County. Authorities with the Broward County Sheriff’s Office, who investigated the case, have ruled his death accidental.

TMZ was the first outlet to report Campbell’s cause of death.

The former Los Angeles Laker, who shared the court with Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant, is survived by his wife, Rosemary; his four children — Jay Lee, Jael, Ariel and Aaron — as noted by the NBA; and his siblings: sister Sandra and brothers Elwayne and Charles Jr.

On Dec. 3, Sandra told the New York Post that her brother had been out on the water and had already returned to shore when he suddenly collapsed on Monday.

“It was all of a sudden,” she said. “He wasn’t sick. He was out fishing.”

At the time of the interview, Sandra said the family still “don’t know what happened.”

“He was such a big pillar and a staple to our family,” she added. “He’s going to be terribly missed.”

Campbell’s family also shared a statement, finding some comfort in the fact that he died while “doing what he loved.” They remembered the longtime NBA big man as “a man to whom family meant everything — generous, funny, disciplined and kind, but could shut you down if required.”

They continued, describing him as “a man of God” who “passed doing what he loved: fishing out on the ocean, enjoying his idea of an ideal day.”

His death was first publicly announced on Wednesday, Dec. 3, in statements from Clemson University, his alma mater, and the Detroit Pistons, the franchise he played for during two seasons.

“The Detroit Pistons organization is deeply saddened and heartbroken by the news of Elden Campbell’s passing,” the team said.

“A proud member of our 2004 NBA Championship team, Elden patrolled the paint with strength and skill, playing an important role during one of the most memorable chapters in franchise history. Beyond his contributions on the court, Elden’s calm presence and warm personality made him beloved by teammates, fans and the community alike. Our hearts and prayers are with Elden’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

Magic Johnson, who played parts of three seasons (1990, 1991 and 1996) with Campbell, also paid tribute on X, writing that he “loved throwing lobs to Elden because he could jump out the gym and had so much talent,” adding that he and his wife Cookie are praying for Campbell’s family and Lakers fans as they grieve. He ended his message, “Rest in peace Big E!”