Justin Reed Dies: Former Celtics Player, 35, Succumbs to Cancer

Justin Reed, who was selected in 2004 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics, died Friday morning at age 35 from angiosarcoma, an aggressive cancer of the blood vessels that impacted his spine.

Reed had been diagnosed with the cancer a few months ago and had been battling it, The Clarion-Ledger reported. His death was announced in a press release.

Reed played in 136 NBA games for the Celtics and the Minnesota Timberwolves after he was traded in 2006. He had played for Ole Miss for four years prior to entering the NBA and was part of the team that went to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournament, according to NBC Sports.

Reed led the SEC conference in scoring as a senior at Ole Miss, and also won Freshman and Newcomer of the Year Honors in his first year with the team. He was All-SEC for all of his four years at Ole Miss, according to the Sporting News.

“We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of an all-time Rebel great,” Ole Miss coach Andy Kennedy said, Sporting News reported. “J Reed epitomized the qualities of what it means to be an Ole Miss Rebel.” Kennedy also said he would be praying for the family.

The condolences poured into Twitter as fans absorbed the news.

So saddened to hear the news on Justin Reed. He was a great REBEL and one of the toughest competitors I've ever met. God Bless....

— Keith Carter (@KeithCarterOM) October 20, 2017

Prayers for former Ole Miss and NBA star Justin Reed who has passed away from spinal cancer.
May your rest be this day in peace, and your dwelling place in the Paradise of God. pic.twitter.com/hymZbq6cna

— The Rebel Walk (@TheRebelWalk) October 20, 2017

Sad to hear. He was a wonderful athlete and person. Prayers to his family.

— David Kellum (@RebVoice) October 20, 2017

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