| Here's To You, Jason Collier Authored by Patrick J. Austin - October 15, 2005 - 1:10 pm
When I heard Jason Collier passed away due to cardiac arrest, shock and disbelief overcame me. What went wrong? How could this happen? He was only 28. It’s always sad to hear of someone’s passing, but when they’re struck down in their prime, it makes it even worse.
Jason was selected in the first round by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2000 draft. He was quickly traded to the Houston Rockets and given the task of backing up Hall of Famer, Hakeem Olajuwon. His future was looking very bright indeed. Unfortunately, injuries plagued him while in Houston and he never got the chance to earn a meaningful role on the team. After three years, they let him go. He then decided to join the National Basketball Development League's Fayetteville Patriots. Once he finally got healthy and was able to produce on a consistent basis, the Hawks signed him to a 10-day contract. After some impressive performances, we quickly signed him for the rest of the season.
Collier enjoyed his best season ever with the Hawks during 03-04 campaign where he averaged 11.3ppg and 5.6rpg. In total, he only played two seasons with us, but his impact was felt. He played hard each and every night and that effort earned him a spot in the rotation. But most importantly, Jason was an all-around nice guy. He never got into any legal trouble while in Atlanta; was never seen cavorting at night clubs or bars; he was a solid citizen in every sense of the word.
Jason is survived by his wife, Katie, and daughter, Elezan. My deepest condolences and best wishes go out to them.
A lesson we can all learn from this, is to appreciate life. Enjoy every minute of it, because you don’t know when it could all end. |
