Rasual Butler played his last professional basketball game in 2016, but his NBA peers never forgot what a big man he was.
That became clear Wednesday after reports emerged saying Butler and his wife, singer Leah LaBelle, died in an early morning car accident in Los Angeles. The Miami Heat confirmed the tragedy Wednesday afternoon.
https://twitter.com/MiamiHEAT/status/958773640698482688
The announcement of Butler’s death prompted an outpouring of grief among past and present NBA stars, who used social media to share kind words. Butler played for the Heat, New Orleans Hornets, Los Angeles Clippers, Chicago Bulls, Toronto Raptors, Indiana Pacers, Washington Wizards and San Antonio Spurs throughout the course of his career.
Rest In Peace my brother 🙏🏾#RasualButler
— Kobe Bryant (@kobebryant) January 31, 2018
Rip Bro bro 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/92Oy2qPUaf
— Paul Pierce (@paulpierce34) January 31, 2018
Incredibly sad news to hear about Rasual Butler and his wife Leah. Prayers to both of their families through this tough time.
— Kevin Love (@kevinlove) January 31, 2018
Devastated to hear the news about the passing of my former teammate, Rasual, & his wife. My thoughts and prayers go out to their families during this difficult time. Rasual was an amazing teammate and an even better person. He will truly be missed!
— LaMarcus Aldridge (@aldridge_12) January 31, 2018
Very sad day for the #NBAFamily. My deepest condolences to Rasual and his wife’s families in such a painful moment. #RIPRasualButler pic.twitter.com/PUmTQUFwbF
— Pau Gasol (@paugasol) January 31, 2018
Come on man. Damn. The world just lost a great dude. RIP Rasual “Bop” Butler! https://t.co/tufRq2H3AI
— DWade (@DwyaneWade) January 31, 2018
lost an OG today, a true pro, a teacher, and competitor. who was not only a great mentor but also a great father. @rasualbutler45 rest peacefully my brother. #gonetoosoon pic.twitter.com/md1mOTxifQ
— solomon hill (@solohill) January 31, 2018
https://instagram.com/p/BeoDupvhxpc/?utm_source=ig_embed
https://instagram.com/p/Ben9w51AcQl/?utm_source=ig_embed
Butler was 38 years old. LaBelle, who appeared on “American Idol,” was 31. They’re survived by Butler’s daughter Raven, whom he fathered in a previous relationship.
