The Detroit Pistons said Thursday they would honor the late Zeke Upshaw with an honorary call-up from the G League that coincided with Thursday night's game against Washington.
Upshaw, a swingman for the Pistons' G League affiliate, suffered "sudden cardiac death" after collapsing on the court last Saturday.
Upshaw, a Chicago native who played for Illinois State and Hofstra, was undrafted and played internationally in Slovenia and Luxembourg. He spent most of the past two seasons with the Grand Rapids Drive, appearing in 75 games primarily as a reserve and averaging 7.6 points.
"Zeke was a special player for the Grand Rapids Drive and as the G League affiliate for our organization, many of our staffers had the opportunity to spend time with this terrific young man," Pistons GM Jeff Bower said. "His spirit and commitment on and off the court embodied all the traits we look for in players who suit up for the Detroit Pistons. As we look to memorialize Zeke's basketball career and continue to support his family during this tragically difficult time, executing an honorary call-up recognizes his standing as a member of the Pistons family."
