Earl Cureton Obituary – Cause of Death News : “NBA Star & College Basketball Legend Passes Away”

Detroit — Earl Cureton, a beloved figure in the world of professional basketball and a tireless ambassador for the city of Detroit, has sadly passed away at the age of 66. Cureton’s long and successful career spanned nearly two decades, during which he played for seven NBA franchises and represented multiple organizations overseas.

Born and raised in Detroit during the tumultuous 1960s, Cureton experienced the race riots firsthand. He attended Detroit Finney High School, where he showcased his basketball skills before moving on to Robert Morris University. However, Cureton ultimately decided to transfer back home to what was then known as the University of Detroit.

Standing at an impressive 6-foot-9, Cureton made a significant impact on the court for the University of Detroit. Alongside his talented teammates, including Terry Duerod, he led the Titans to the 1979 NCAA Tournament, finishing the season ranked 20th in the nation. Cureton’s junior year saw him average 11.7 points and nine rebounds per game, while his senior year saw him excel with 19.9 points and 9.1 rebounds per game.

In the 1979 NBA Draft, Cureton was selected in the third round by the Philadelphia 76ers. Throughout his career, he also played for the Detroit Pistons, Los Angeles Clippers, Charlotte Hornets, Chicago Bulls, Toronto Raptors, and Houston Rockets, winning NBA championships with the 76ers in 1983 and the Rockets in 1994. Cureton’s NBA journey allowed him to play alongside some of the greatest basketball players of all time, including Julius Erving, Michael Jordan, Hakeem Olajuwon, Moses Malone, and Charles Oakley.

Off the court, Cureton was known for his dedication to both Detroit Mercy and Robert Morris. He was inducted into the Detroit Mercy Hall of Fame in 2007 and the Robert Morris athletics Hall of Fame in 1991. Cureton’s impact on the basketball community extended beyond his playing days. Earlier this year, he released a book titled “Earl the Twirl: My Life in Basketball,” sharing his NBA journey and emphasizing the importance of being a good teammate.

Cureton’s commitment to his hometown of Detroit never wavered. He saw his number 24 retired by Detroit Mercy in 2020 and joined the Titans’ game broadcasts in 2021. His contributions to the sport and the community earned him widespread respect and admiration.

Cureton is survived by his wife, Judith, and his daughter, Sari, who played basketball at Georgetown University. Funeral arrangements are currently pending.

Earl Cureton’s legacy as a basketball legend and his unwavering dedication to Detroit will forever be remembered. He touched the lives of many and left an indelible mark on the sport he loved.