Clippers Mourn Loss Of Video Assistant

SAN DIEGO, CA —As the Los Angeles Clippers begin training camp in San Diego this week, the team is mourning the death of video assistant Assane Drame, who was killed Monday night in a car crash in Los Angeles, the team confirmed.

Drame, 26, and a native of Lindenwold, New Jersey, had been with the organization since 2019 and was part of the Clippers' digital content group, according to ESPN.com.

The organization released a statement about Drame's death on Wednesday, and a few of the players also paid tribute to the Rowan (N.J.) University graduate.

"The Clippers organization mourns the loss of Assane Drame, a dedicated employee, a talented videographer and a loyal friend," the Clippers said in the statement. "He was a hard worker and a gentle soul, passionate about his craft and kind to his colleagues, earning the respect and admiration of players, coaches and staff."

On Twitter, veteran forward Nicolas Batum posted a photo of Drame with the words "Just heard the sad news. Rest in Peace King."

Meanwhile, third-year guard Terance Mann wrote: "Heard nothing but great things about Assane. Send Prayers up."

Drame had been present for Clippers Media Day in Los Angeles on Monday, ABC 6 in Philadelphia reported.

However, according to TMZ, Drame was on the 10 Freeway in LA that night when he pulled his 2102 Honda Accord to the shoulder of the road. Moments later, his vehicle was hit by another car, causing fatal injuries.

TMZ reported that Drame originally had been reported as missing by his family, after a Clippers Human Resources employee had called to say Drame had not shown up for work.