Former Louisville basketball center, Clifford Rozier, has tragically passed away at the age of 45 due to complications from a heart attack. Rozier, who was a first-round draft pick for the Golden State Warriors, was confirmed deceased by his brother, Kobie Rozier, who shared the news on Facebook.
Kobie Rozier revealed that his brother, known as Big Cliff, had been battling for his life in the days following a heart attack, but unfortunately, he lost the fight. He expressed his sorrow and mentioned that they will meet again someday. According to Kobie Rozier, Clifford Rozier experienced cardiac arrest two days prior and was placed on life support.
Clifford Rozier was a standout basketball player in Florida, earning the title of Mr. Basketball in 1990. After transferring to Louisville from North Carolina, he showcased his talent from 1992 to 1994. Rozier initially played under Dean Smith at North Carolina before leading Denny Crum’s Cardinals to the Sweet 16, averaging 15.7 points and 10.9 rebounds in the 1992-93 season. His numbers improved the following season to 18.1 points and 11.1 rebounds.
A two-time Metro Conference Player of the Year, Rozier was also selected as a first-team All-American for the 1993-94 season. He competed alongside notable players like Jason Kidd, Grant Hill, Donyell Marshall, and Glenn Robinson. Rozier was drafted 16th overall by the Warriors in the 1994 NBA draft.
Starting his professional career with the Golden State Warriors, Rozier later played for the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Toronto Raptors. Throughout his NBA tenure, he appeared in 173 games, averaging 4.8 points and 5.2 rebounds. Despite playing 66 games in his rookie season, he exited the league by 1997.
Following his basketball career, Rozier faced challenges with stress, mental health issues, and substance abuse. Kobie Rozier shared that his brother had managed to overcome his struggles and achieve sobriety. Those who knew Rozier described him as a confident individual with a kind heart.
