American professional basketball player
Brad Branson, a prominent figure in international basketball and a former NBA player, has passed away at the age of 67. His death was announced by former teammates and friends on January 28, 2026. Born in Harvey, Illinois, Branson's career spanned over a decade and a half, leaving a significant mark on the sport both in the United States and across Europe.
Branson began his professional journey after being drafted by the Detroit Pistons in 1980. He played two seasons in the NBA for the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Indiana Pacers. While his NBA career was brief, he made a notable impact in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA), earning CBA Newcomer of the Year and CBA All-Star Game MVP honors in 1982. His success in the CBA paved the way for a distinguished international career.
His most impactful years were spent in Europe, particularly in Spain, where he became a legend in the ACB league. Branson played for Real Madrid from 1986 to 1988, contributing to their only Korac Cup title in 1988. He later became a club icon for Pamesa Valencia, playing from 1988 to 1994 and remaining one of the players with the most appearances in the club's history. He also had stints in Italy with Sarila Rimini and Silverstone Brescia.
Beyond his on-court achievements, Branson was known for his dedication and adaptability, becoming fluent in Spanish and eventually earning citizenship. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest centers to have played in the ACB. After his playing career, he transitioned to coaching at the high school level and remained involved in mentoring young athletes, emphasizing the importance of life after sports.
Brad Branson's legacy extends beyond his statistics and championships. He is remembered as a skilled player, a respected competitor, and a positive influence on the game. His contributions to basketball in multiple countries have cemented his place in the sport's history. He is survived by his family and a wide circle of friends and former colleagues who will miss him dearly.
Those who wish to honor Brad's memory are invited to .
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Brad was a teacher of mine in high school in 2019. I graduated in 2020. I took his volunteer / bright futures class, he had a profound impact of the trajectory of my life. Now I am currently a teacher, and work in the non-profit space. He came across my mind earlier today so I went to look him up so I could reach out. I am unbelievable sad that he passed away. He was a great man, teacher, & leader. He always spoke highly of his family in class. I thought he was a very cool guy, well-respect. He was extremely impactful on my life and I know many others. My condolences go out to his family and community.
I looked up to Brad, in many ways! We worked together in Spanish Media and what I remember most about him was his commitment to his local community and taking care of "the kids". He was a great team player who I'm certain will be missed by many.
Grateful to have shared the honor of doing a Positive Coaching Alliance workshop for athletes with Brad. He spoke with such passion and intention in helping athletes to 'believe'! He fostered a warm and safe environment for the athletes to share by being vulnerable himself with his experiences. All of us at PCA will miss Brad and the wisdom and faith he brought to the organization. Rest in peace my friend! -Kip Rodgers
I got the opportunity to meet Brad for the first time and have a couple really great conversations with him at our PCA Trainers Institute this past April. What a wonderful man! He was so incredibly dedicated to helping youth everywhere get the most positive and life-transforming experience possible with their athletic journey. His attitude was instantly contagious and his faith was immediately evident. I'm so thankful that I got to meet him, but more importantly, that he got to meet so many athletes, coaches, and parents over the years to share his message. He changed more lives for the better than we will ever be able to count. Praying for peace for the family. God bless!
Brad had a great impact on People of all ages. His journey in Basketball is a testimony to working with great passion to be the very best you can be. He spoke of his Faith in Christ authentically and shared his testimony with all he had opportunity to do so. We Coached together in 2020. I am thinking of him and praying for his Mom and all his Family. 🙏🏼❤️🎓🏀🏆💯
Brad and I went to NFM high school together. Then we worked at Winn-Dixie for two years. What a great guy, we have so much fun together. Rest in peace, my friend.
I knew of Brad in High School, but really met him when we worked together at the School District of Lee County. What a wonderful person he was, always giving praise to his students and other staff members? I am so sorry Ginnie for the loss of your second son and Beth for the loss of your brother! May God be with you all! Love and Prayers...Cindy Proia
So sad to hear of Brad’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Still the only NFM Red Knight to play in the NBA. Pretty cool, Brad. Doug David
Such a sweet guy in high school. Rest in peace, Brad!
Rest in peace, Brad.
Brad was a very respectful young man when we were in High School. I really enjoyed talking to him. Brads Mother was a very liked and loved teacher. She raised a very good Son. I'm deeply sorry for your Family's loss
He was a super sweet guy in high school my condolences to all his family
Brad was a teacher of mine in high school in 2019. I graduated in 2020. I took his volunteer / bright futures class, he had a profound impact of the trajectory of my life. Now I am currently a teacher, and work in the non-profit space. He came across my mind earlier today so I went to look him up so I could reach out. I am unbelievable sad that he passed away. He was a great man, teacher, & leader. He always spoke highly of his family in class. I thought he was a very cool guy, well-respect. He was extremely impactful on my life and I know many others. My condolences go out to his family and community.
I looked up to Brad, in many ways! We worked together in Spanish Media and what I remember most about him was his commitment to his local community and taking care of "the kids". He was a great team player who I'm certain will be missed by many.
Grateful to have shared the honor of doing a Positive Coaching Alliance workshop for athletes with Brad. He spoke with such passion and intention in helping athletes to 'believe'! He fostered a warm and safe environment for the athletes to share by being vulnerable himself with his experiences. All of us at PCA will miss Brad and the wisdom and faith he brought to the organization. Rest in peace my friend! -Kip Rodgers
I got the opportunity to meet Brad for the first time and have a couple really great conversations with him at our PCA Trainers Institute this past April. What a wonderful man! He was so incredibly dedicated to helping youth everywhere get the most positive and life-transforming experience possible with their athletic journey. His attitude was instantly contagious and his faith was immediately evident. I'm so thankful that I got to meet him, but more importantly, that he got to meet so many athletes, coaches, and parents over the years to share his message. He changed more lives for the better than we will ever be able to count. Praying for peace for the family. God bless!
Brad had a great impact on People of all ages. His journey in Basketball is a testimony to working with great passion to be the very best you can be. He spoke of his Faith in Christ authentically and shared his testimony with all he had opportunity to do so. We Coached together in 2020. I am thinking of him and praying for his Mom and all his Family. 🙏🏼❤️🎓🏀🏆💯
Brad and I went to NFM high school together. Then we worked at Winn-Dixie for two years. What a great guy, we have so much fun together. Rest in peace, my friend.
I knew of Brad in High School, but really met him when we worked together at the School District of Lee County. What a wonderful person he was, always giving praise to his students and other staff members? I am so sorry Ginnie for the loss of your second son and Beth for the loss of your brother! May God be with you all! Love and Prayers...Cindy Proia
So sad to hear of Brad’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Still the only NFM Red Knight to play in the NBA. Pretty cool, Brad. Doug David
Such a sweet guy in high school. Rest in peace, Brad!
Rest in peace, Brad.
Brad was a very respectful young man when we were in High School. I really enjoyed talking to him. Brads Mother was a very liked and loved teacher. She raised a very good Son. I'm deeply sorry for your Family's loss
He was a super sweet guy in high school my condolences to all his family
