Scottie Pippen‘s eldest son Antron has died at the age of 33. The former Chicago Bulls player today announced the tragic passing of his son on Twitter and Instagram, leaving a heartfelt tribute, but not revealing the cause of death. The NBA icon, a father of eight, said that Antron Pippen might have made it to the NBA if it hadn’t been for his chronic asthma. Antron was Scottie’s only child from his first marriage to Karen McCollum, one that lasted from 1988 to 1990. See the details below.
Taking to Instagram after Twitter and posting photos of both Antron solo and of himself with his son, Scottie opened: “I’m heartbroken to share that yesterday, I said goodbye to my firstborn son Antron.”
“The two of us shared a love for basketball and we had countless conversations about the game. Antron suffered from chronic asthma and if he hadn’t had it, I truly believe he would’ve made it to the NBA,” he added. Antron had played ball at Texas A&M International University. See more photos below.
Continuing, Pippen wrote: “He never let that get him down, though—Antron stayed positive and worked hard, and I am so proud of the man that he became. Please keep his mom, Karen, and all of his family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.”
“A kind heart and beautiful soul gone way too soon. I love you, son, rest easy until we meet again. ??”
The heart-breaking post saw one fan write: “A father should never lose his child. Sending prayers.” More below.
The news was initially shared via 55-year-old Scottie’s Twitter, where he wrote: “I’m heartbroken to share that yesterday, I said goodbye to my firstborn son Antron. The two of us shared a love for basketball and we had countless conversations about the game.”
Pippen is also a father to Taylor, Sierra, Scotty Jr., Preston, Justin, and Sophia. He shares four children with 2018-divorced ex-wife and former “Real Housewives of Miami” star Larsa Pippen. Scottie also lost his other daughter Tyler (twin to Taylor) nine days after her birth.
Close friend Loren Ridinger was quick to respond, sending thoughts and writing: “Antron was such a special guy and I am honored that I got to know him. I know he was loved and I am praying for your whole family Scottie. And karen of course. We love you and if there is anything we can do. JUST say it. We love you so much. Prayers for all.”
“Sorry to hear this ? me and your son played AAU in Atlanta and he was nice !” another wrote.
