© 2026 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Autopsy: NBA G League Player Upshaw Had 'Sudden Cardiac Death'

Zeke Upshaw
Grand Rapids Drive roster photo
Zeke Upshaw, a swingman for the Detroit Pistons' G League affiliate

A medical examiner has determined Zeke Upshaw, a swingman for the Detroit Pistons' G League affiliate, suffered a "sudden cardiac death" after collapsing on the court.

WOOD-TV reports Kent County medical examiner Dr. Stephen Cohle conducted an autopsy Tuesday, though the investigation will continue for a few weeks.

The 26-year-old Grand Rapids Drive guard collapsed Saturday during a game against the Long Island Nets, and died Monday.

Cohle says he observed some "cardiac abnormalities," and he's working to determine the exact type of heart disease.

Upshaw, a Chicago native who played for Illinois State and Hofstra, was undrafted and played internationally in Slovenia and Luxembourg.

He spent most of the last two seasons with the Drive, appearing in 75 games primarily as a reserve and averaging 7.6 points.

WKAR has closed the gap left by the loss of federal funding. Because of you, trusted journalism, inspiring stories, and classical music remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan.
Now the work continues — your monthly gift helps maintain this success and keeps public media free for all.