Adreian Payne, who played for three teams during his four-year NBA career, has died at age 31, according to Chris Solari of The Detroit Free Press.
Payne was shot and killed early on Monday morning in Orlando, Florida, according to Solari.
After four years at Michigan State, Payne was selected by the Hawks with the 15th pick in the 2014 draft. He only played three games for Atlanta before being traded to Minnesota, where he spent the next two and a half seasons.
Payne’s final NBA appearance came as a two-way player with the Magic during the first part of the 2017/18 season. He was released by Orlando shortly after details of a 2010 sexual assault allegation were reported.
After being waived by the Magic, Payne signed with Panathinaikos in Greece, kicking off the overseas portion of his career. He also played in China, France and Turkey, and spent this season with Juventus Utena in Lithuania before parting ways with the team in February.
We at Hoops Rumors also send our condolences to Payne’s family and friends.
May his soul Rest in peace. He was one of my favorite Michigan State players ever, sad to see him go, and I wish he had more of an NBA opportunity, and I feel sad for his family. Thoughts and prayers for them
Terrible news to hear. He was such a good guy as I saw at Michigan State and in his time with us in Minnesota. Helped in the community, visited pediatric hospitals, and as I recall he was a great teammate. Always wanted the guy to do well.
He was accused of rape
So??
I remember when he was on Shaqtin a Fool when Shaq said, “Bring on the Payne!”. Such a tragic end for him, and my thoughts and prayers will go towards his family and friends.
Sad when you hear of a young man die violently.