Former Detroit Pistons player, community ambassador Earl Cureton dies at 66

Detroit Pistons player, community ambassador with the organization for the past 10 years, and a native Detroiter, has died unexpectedly, the Pistons said in a statement Saturday. He was 66 years old.

Cureton was a 12-year NBA veteran and was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers with the 58th overall pick in the 1979 NBA Draft.

“The Detroit Pistons organization is deeply saddened by the passing of Earl Cureton, a person who meant so much to the organization as a colleague, former player, community ambassador and friend. As tough a

colleague, former player, community ambassador and friend. As tough a competitor as he was during his playing years on the court, he was equally kind-hearted, outgoing and impactful off it. He represented our franchise with great passion and truly enjoyed working to give back and improve the lives of Detroiters in the city he loved so much. We

Cureton “The Twirl” was a part of two NBA championship teams, the 76ers and the Houston Rockets. He also played three seasons with the Detroit Pistons, Chicago Bulls, LA Clippers, Charlotte Hornets, and the Toronto Raptors.

According to the Pistons, Cureton coached in the NBA, United States Basketball League, and Continental Basketball Association following his retirement from the NBA in 1997.