In a somber announcement, the Detroit Pistons revealed that Earl “The Twirl” Cureton, a two-time NBA champion and a prominent figure in the Detroit community, passed away at the age of 66. The news, described as “unexpected” by the Pistons, has left the basketball community in mourning.
A Champion on and off the Court
Earl Cureton, standing at 6-foot-9, had a notable career that spanned 12 seasons in the NBA. Known for his contributions both as a player and a community ambassador, Cureton played a crucial role in securing championships with the 1982-83 Philadelphia 76ers and the 1993-94 Houston Rockets. His impact extended beyond the court, as he dedicated the last decade of his life to serving as a community ambassador for the Detroit Pistons.
Earl ‘The Twirl’ Cureton, who won two NBA championships in 12 seasons in the league, has died Rest in peace 🙏#NBA #nbaplayoffs #NBATwitter #basketball #diedsuddenly #died pic.twitter.com/Z9a99KRUQB
— DM NewSquad (@dmnewsquad) February 5, 2024
Tributes Pour In
Pistons owner Tom Gores expressed his grief, remembering Cureton as “one of the most generous, positive, and caring people” he knew. Former Pistons guard Isiah Thomas highlighted Cureton’s commitment to the Detroit community, stating that he “will be greatly missed.”
Earl Cureton, a Detroit native, longtime NBA player and Pistons ambassador, passed away today at 66, the team said.
I’m shocked. Got to know him very well. He’s always around. Tremendous guy who loved this city. Sad, man. RIP Twirl.
— James L. Edwards III (@JLEdwardsIII) February 4, 2024
Coach Dick Vitale, under whom Cureton played during his college years at Detroit Mercy, shared his heartbreak, emphasizing Cureton’s love for Detroit and his efforts to inspire young people to pursue their dreams.
A Multi-Faceted Career
Cureton’s basketball journey began at Robert Morris before transferring to Detroit Mercy. His standout performance during the 1979-80 season earned him a place in the school’s athletic Hall of Fame. Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers in the third round of the 1979 NBA draft, Cureton went on to play for several teams, including Detroit, Chicago, the LA Clippers, Charlotte, Houston, and Toronto.
C’est avec émotion que j’ai appris le décès de 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥 𝐂𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐨𝐧 alias “The Twirl” ce dimanche 04 février. Double champion @NBA en 1983 avec les @sixers et les @HoustonRockets en 1994.
Joue 19 renc avec le #ToursBC en 1991-92 où il tourne à 16,7 pts et 10,4 rbs
RIP 😔 pic.twitter.com/PenN4ewnV4— Yannick Lucas ⛹️ (@RetroBasket37) February 5, 2024
Following his playing career, Cureton transitioned into coaching, making significant contributions to the NBA, United States Basketball League, and Continental Basketball Association.
Remembering a Beautiful Soul
Players and coaches across the NBA shared their memories of Cureton. Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups, a former teammate, described Cureton as a “beautiful dude” with an infectious laugh, emphasizing his unwavering positivity despite life’s challenges.
Earl “The Twirl” Cureton’s legacy transcends his on-court achievements, leaving an indelible mark on the NBA. The communities he touched throughout his remarkable career.
Earl “The Twirl” Cureton, a member of the inaugural @hornets team and two-time NBA champion, died unexpectedly Sunday. He was 66.
More: https://t.co/48q5KL7Et9 pic.twitter.com/Usee9NYVm9
— WBTV News (@WBTV_News) February 5, 2024
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