“We are very saddened to learn of the passing of Jackson Vroman,” the Phoenix Suns confirmed the news on Twitter on June 29, while also posting a photo of Jackson playing basketball. “Our thoughts are with his family during this time.”
Originally, the Lebanese national basketball team prematurely tweeted that Jackson had died in a car crash, but it was confirmed by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner that he was actually found unconscious in the pool at his home.
“We sadly announce the death of former Lebanese national team player Jackson Vroman in a tragic car accident,” the Lebanese national basketball team also tweeted, along with a photo of Jackson. See it below.
We sadly announce the death of former Lebanese national team player Jackson Vroman in a tragic car accident pic.twitter.com/YI9Dtm2nDE
— LebaneseBasketball (@leb_basket_net) June 29, 2015
Jackson played basketball for Iowa State from 2002 to 2004 before he was selected in the second round of the 2004 NBA draft by the Chicago Bulls. Jackson, who was friends with Justin Bieber and Reggie Bush, also played for the Suns, and the New Orleans Hornets. He even played internationally in South Korea, China, Spain, and the Philippines.
While Justin has yet to comment on Jackson’s tragic death, Reggie posted a photo and heartfelt message on Instagram on June 29. He wrote, “Love you bro I miss you already can’t believe your gone I pray that God has mercy on your soul at the gates of Heaven and we meet again in the after life! I promise to continue our vision of Beach Volleyball Thursday’s in your honor and I thank God for allowing me to spend time with you on your final days on earth! RIP JAX aka The Gentle Giant #Repost @instajaxon Volleyball w the boys. #goose #maverick#sideout #weaklinkedin #castaway #wilson.” See it below.
https://instagram.com/p/4ibWQ2MnPp/
And just eight weeks ago, Jackson posted a throwback Thursday pic, which shows him hanging out with Justin in Cannes last year.
Our thoughts go out to Jackson’s family and friends during this difficult time. This is truly heartbreaking.
— Chris Rogers
