Father of NBA Player Wayne Ellington Shot, Killed in Philly

The father of Los Angeles Lakers guard Wayne Ellington Jr. was shot and killed in the Germantown section of Philadelphia Sunday night.

Police responding to a car crash on the 5200 block of Marion Street just after 8 p.m. found a 57-year-old man in the driver’s seat of a 2001 Oldsmobile. The vehicle had struck two parked cars on the street, according to investigators.

The man was bleeding heavily from a gunshot wound to the left side of his head. Police rushed the victim to the Einstein Medical Center,where he died early Monday.

NBC10 confirmed Tuesday that the victim was Wayne Ellington Sr., the father of NBA player and Los Angeles Laker Wayne Ellington Jr.

“My family and I are devastated by the news of my father’s murder on Sunday night in Philadelphia,” Ellington Jr. said in a statement. “We appreciate everyone’s support and ask that you respect the privacy of our family during this very difficult time.”

No arrests have been made in his father's murder. Police continue to investigate.

The Lakers' general manager Mitch Kupchak also released a statement on the shooting.

“Our players are upset for their friend and teammate," Kupchak wrote. "Additionally, ownership and all Lakers employees are also saddened by this tragedy. Those of us who work with and have gotten to know Wayne have come to know what a wonderful and caring person he is. Our hearts go out to Wayne and his family, as do our thoughts and prayers.”

Ellington Jr., 26, was granted an indefinite leave of absence. It's unknown when he will rejoin the team.

Ellington Jr. was born in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, and attended Daniel Boone High School in Birdsboro as well as Episcopal Academy in Merion.

He played college basketball for North Carolina and led the Tar Heels to the NCAA Championship in 2009 during his junior year. He was also named the tournament's most outstanding player.

He was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2009. He has also played for the Memphis Grizzlies, Cleveland Cavaliers, Dallas Mavericks and most recently, the Los Angeles Lakers. 

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