NBA Veteran Earl "The Twirl" Cureton Passes Away at 66

Photo: Instagram/Earl Cureton

At the age of 66, 12-year NBA veteran Earl Cureton, known as "The Twirl," passed away unexpectedly this morning in a shocking turn of events.

Cureton, a former Pistons player and community ambassador with the organization for the last decade, left an indelible mark on the basketball community.

Cureton, drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 1979, enjoyed a prolific career, securing two NBA championships with the 76ers in 1982-83 and the Houston Rockets in 1993-94.

Photo: Instagram/Earl Cureton

His basketball journey extended beyond playing, making coaching stops in the NBA, United States Basketball League, and Continental Basketball Association.

A Detroit native, Cureton played a pivotal role in the Detroit Pistons organization, serving as a colleague, former player, community ambassador, and friend. The Pistons released a statement expressing deep sorrow over his passing, highlighting his impact both on and off the court.

Pistons Owner Tom Gores shared his sentiments, describing Cureton as one of the most generous, positive, and caring individuals he knew. Former Pistons player and Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas remembered Cureton as a tremendous teammate, tough competitor, and a champion deeply dedicated to making a difference in the Detroit community.


Cureton's legacy extends to his collegiate years, where he played at Division I Robert Morris University and later transferred to the University of Detroit Mercy. In a poignant moment, U of D retired his number 24 on January 23, 2020, and Cureton fulfilled a life-long dream by earning his college degree in Human Services in 2011.

As the basketball world mourns the loss of a beloved figure, Earl Cureton's impact on and off the court will be remembered and celebrated by fans, friends, and teammates alike. (SOURCE: NBA)

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