Euroleague Basketball joins Maccabi FOX Tel Aviv and fans throughout Europe in mourning the premature passing today of Nate Huffman, who starred for the Israeli club between 1999 and 2002.

Maccabi said today in a statement: “Maccabi bows its head today at the death of Nate Huffman, one of the greatest players this club has known, at only 40 years old. He was a great player on the court and an amazing man off it. Our hearts ache. Our sincerest condolences to his family.”

Huffman’s short stay at Maccabi coincided with great moments as the team reached the 2000 continental championship game and 2002 Final Four with him, winning the 2001 FIBA SuproLeague in between.

A center, Huffman started and starred on all three teams. He had previously played one pro season each for Idaho of the NBA D-league and for Fuenlabrada of Spain, and he played a subsequent season for Toronto of the NBA, but his career ended in 2003 due to injuries.

“Although he played in Europe just a few seasons, Nate Huffman impacted the game tremendously on the court by leading Maccabi to three straight Final Fours and off it as a warm teammate and person. It is truly tragic to lose such a gentleman at such an early age. Euroleague Basketball sends its condolences to his family and the larger Maccabi family for this loss.” Euroleague Basketball President and CEO, Jordi Bertomeu said.

Source: Euroleague