New details have emerged about the December 2025 death of former NBA center Elden Campbell, with investigation reports revealing the basketball legend went fishing alone in the middle of the night before his body was found on a Florida beach. Campbell, 57, drowned on December 1, 2025, during what authorities have ruled an accidental drowning while fishing in Pompano Beach, Florida.
According to investigation reports obtained by TMZ Sports in January 2026, surveillance footage showed Campbell leaving a boat ramp alone at 12:37 a.m. on December 1. When his body was discovered hours later on the shore of Pompano Beach, he was wearing a partially unzipped life vest and was tethered to his Sea-Doo Fish Pro watercraft. Authorities found his wallet and an energy drink inside the watercraft.
Campbell’s wife told investigators that the former Lakers star prioritized his health, was able to swim, and had no history of drug or alcohol abuse. However, the report noted he had a history of Type II diabetes and high cholesterol. The Broward County medical examiner ruled his death an accidental drowning after he suffered a medical emergency while fishing.
On January 16, 2026, former teammates, coaches, and family gathered at the Best Western Hotel and Conference Center in Clemson, South Carolina, for a memorial service honoring Campbell. Among those in attendance were former teammate Dale Davis and Campbell’s longtime coach Cliff Ellis, who described the late center as “an outstanding, giving person” who “exemplified what Clemson was all about.”
Campbell’s death marked the loss of one of basketball’s respected veterans and Clemson’s greatest players. Standing 6 feet 11 inches tall, Campbell carved out a successful 15-year career in the NBA after being drafted 27th overall in the first round of the 1990 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers.
Campbell spent nine seasons with the Lakers organization, playing alongside some of basketball’s biggest names, including Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. His career statistics reflected consistent production, averaging 10.3 points and 5.9 rebounds per game throughout his time in the league. Known by the nicknames Easy E or Big E, Campbell was recognized for his effortless playing style and ability to make difficult plays look routine.
Beyond his years in Los Angeles, Campbell played for several other franchises, including the Charlotte Hornets, Seattle SuperSonics and New Jersey Nets. His career reached its pinnacle in 2004 when he won an NBA championship as a member of the Detroit Pistons, adding the sport’s highest team honor to his résumé after more than a decade of professional play.
NBA Hall of Famer Earvin “Magic” Johnson, who played with Campbell during his time with the Lakers, paid tribute to his former teammate on social media. “I loved throwing lobs to Elden because he could jump out of the gym and had so much talent!” Johnson wrote, adding that he and his wife, Cookie, were praying for Campbell’s family and Lakers Nation during this difficult time.
The Detroit Pistons organization also released a statement honoring Campbell’s contributions to their championship team. The franchise acknowledged that Campbell patrolled the paint with strength and skill during one of the most memorable chapters in their history. Beyond his on-court abilities, the team noted his calm presence and warm personality made him beloved by teammates, fans, and the community.
Campbell’s basketball journey began at Clemson University, where he became the school’s all-time leading scorer with 1,880 points and was a three-time All-ACC selection before entering the NBA.
Sandra Campbell reflected on her brother’s importance to their family, describing him as a big pillar and a staple to the family who would be terribly missed.
Campbell is survived by his wife Rosemary and their four children: Jay Lee, Jael, Ariel, and Aaron. He also leaves behind his sister Sandra Campbell and brothers Elwayne Campbell and Charles Campbell Jr. The family released their own statement emphasizing Campbell’s faith and character, describing him as a man of faith who trusted in his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and was generous, funny, disciplined and kind.
The family statement noted that Campbell passed away doing what he loved: fishing out on the ocean, enjoying his idea of an ideal day.