USA TODAY Reports Former NBA center Elden Campbell, known for his calm demeanor and dominant presence on the court, has passed away at the age of 57. His death was first reported by the Los Angeles Times. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
Campbell, affectionately nicknamed “Easy E” during his time with the Los Angeles Lakers, was remembered fondly by former teammate and Lakers guard Byron Scott.
“I just remember his demeanor. That’s why we nicknamed him ‘Easy E,’” Scott told the LA Times. “He was just so cool, nothing speeding him up. He was going to take his time. He was just easy. He was such a good dude. I loved Easy, man.”
Drafted in the first round of the 1990 NBA Draft, Campbell emerged from Clemson University as the school’s all-time leading scorer. He helped lead the Tigers to three NCAA Tournament appearances before joining the professional ranks.
Campbell spent more than eight seasons with the Lakers before being traded to the Charlotte Hornets in 1999. Following the trade, he posted some of the best numbers of his career, averaging 15.3 points and 9.4 rebounds per game.
During his 15-year NBA career, Campbell also played for the Seattle SuperSonics, Detroit Pistons, and New Jersey Nets. His career was highlighted by winning an NBA Championship with the Detroit Pistons in 2004.
Over his time in the league, Campbell averaged 10.3 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game, leaving behind a legacy of consistency, professionalism, and quiet leadership.
Tributes from former teammates, fans, and the basketball community continue to pour in as the league reflects on the life and career of “Easy E.”
