Darko Rajakovic Giving RJ Barrett As Much Time Needed Following Younger Brother Nathan’s Death

The basketball community received some devastating news this week.

Toronto Raptors forward RJ Barrett is going through a tragic passing of his younger brother, Nathan Tyler Barrett.

The Raptors and Canada Basketball released a state on Thursday from the Barrett family that said Nathan Barrett passed away on Tuesday, surrounded by his family, church and friends.

A cause of death was not provided. This is a tremendously tough time for RJ and his family, as they try to make sense of it all.

The Barrett’s asked for privacy, but appreciate the outpouring of love, support and prayers they have been receiving the past few days. Head coach Darko Rajakovic said that the organization is giving RJ as much time as needed away from the team following the passing of Nathan, via Ryan Wolstat Toronto Sun:

“He’s going to take as much time as is needed to process this hard time for him and for his family. We’re in touch with RJ and his family and our thoughts and prayers are with them. We’re hoping that they can feel our support and love.”

While going through grief is never easy, the showing of love from the basketball world is something to be noted. Rajakovic and the team are offering RJ and his family as much support as possible during this incredibly tough time:

“Everybody wanted to keep that private. It’s not easy. Everybody’s dealing with that different way, but it’s everybody’s affected. Players and coaches, all of us are in touch with RJ and his family, and they know we are here for them. And they know how much we love them. They’re going to get any kind of support that we can offer.”

Barrett last played on March 11 against the Denver Nuggets and that may be his final game of the 2023-24 season.

RJ Barrett is flourishing in Toronto

Since coming to Toronto in the O.G. Anunoby trade, Barrett has averaged a career-high 20.8 points, 6.2 rebounds and 4 assists on great efficiency 55.1% from the field and 41.7% from three-point range.

It has been a great return home for Barrett and all of Canada will have his back during this tough time.