Former Clemson basketball player Demontez Stitt has died. He was 27.
Stitt, who played at Clemson from 2007-11 and then carved out a career in foreign leagues, was found dead in his home in North Carolina, a Clemson spokesman confirmed to Omnisport, adding that the university was still gathering facts surrounding his death.
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Stitt's death originally was reported by international news outlets, which said it appeared Stitt died of a heart attack.
By mid-morning Wednesday, Clemson coach Brad Brownell was remembering Stitt — affectionately known as "Buddy" to teammates, coaches and friends — for his "big smile and competitive spirit."
My heart aches. RIP @_buddyDAgr8 Will always remember your big smile and competitive spirit. It was a true pleasure to coach you.
— Coach Brad Brownell (@Coach_Brownell) July 13, 2016
Stitt played in 30 or more games all four seasons at Clemson, leading the Tigers in scoring his final season at 14.5 points per game.
He is the only Clemson player to start on four NCAA Tournament teams, according to WCNC.com in Charlotte, N.C., his hometown.
Stitt played professionally in Israel, Belgium, Mexico and Turkey. Last season, he averaged 20.3 points, 5.1 rebounds and 5.2 assists per game for Orkide Gediz in the Turkish Basketball League.