former Los Angeles Lakers center Elden Campbell He spent more than a decade in the NBA, spending nearly nine seasons in Los Angeles, and had a career that included winning an NBA championship. detroit pistons. Campbell passed away on December 2, 2025 at the age of 57. An official cause of death has not been released at this time.
Following news of his death, former teammates magic johnson I remember him as a close friend and a talented player. In a post shared on Dec. 3, 2025, Johnson described Campbell as a “kind soul” while recalling their time together on the Lakers.
“I just heard the devastating news of the passing of my former Lakers teammate and friend Elden Campbell. He was such a kind soul. He was extremely athletic for a basketball player. I loved throwing lobs to Elden because he could jump out of the gym and was so talented! Cookie and I are praying for his family and Lakers Nation as they grieve during this difficult time. Rest in Peace, Big E!”
Read more about Campbell as news of his death breaks.
Who is Elden Campbell?
Campbell is an American professional basketball player who played 15 seasons in the NBA from 1990 to 2005. He was born on July 23, 1968 in Los Angeles, California, and played college basketball for the Clemson Tigers, becoming the school’s all-time leading scorer. “We mourn the loss of Elden Campbell, our school’s all-time leading scorer, All-American and three-time All-ACC player, who has passed away at the age of 57,” the school wrote in an Instagram post.
Drafted 27th overall in the 1990 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers, he spent the better part of a decade with the Lakers before moving on to other teams, ultimately winning an NBA championship with the Detroit Pistons in 2004.
The Detroit Pistons lost legend Elden Campbell today.
He was underrated with the Pistons — tough post defense, veteran leadership, and most importantly, tons of playing time in the playoffs. Pistons fans will always remember everything you did on and off the court. Rest in peace🙏… pic.twitter.com/n4QXgltLoJ
— Pistons Talk (@Pistons__Talk) December 3, 2025
“Beyond his contributions on the court, Elden’s gentle presence and warm personality endeared him to teammates, fans and the community alike. Our hearts and prayers are with Elden’s family and friends during this difficult time,” the Pistons said in a statement on Dec. 3, 2025.
Was Elden Campbell married?
Public records and recent mainstream media obituaries, including those reporting his death, do not mention that Campbell was married at the time of his death.
How did Elden Campbell die?
The official cause of death has not been released at this time.
