Ex-UCLA star and renowned basketball trainer Billy Knight was reportedly found dead in Phoenix.
According to TMZ, on Sunday (Jul 8) after posting an apparent video suicide note, Billy Knight revealed that he was battling depression and apologized to friends and family, saying it was “probably my last message on Earth”, noting that he felt his”time is up.”
“I isolated myself from my family members. I isolated myself from my friends, and that’s not something you should do. If this happens, you probably have a mental illness. Mental illness is serious. I hear voices in my head constantly, and I don’t know where they come from. I just asked God for forgiveness for all the wrong I’ve done.”
In the video he also advises people suffering from mental illness to seek help, so they don’t end up like him.
Shortly after the video was posted, the Phoenix P.D. says officers confirmed that they Knight’s body in a roadway in downtown Phoenix. According to published reports, no evidence of foul play was detected, but the body was sent to the Medical Examiner to determine the cause of death.
Billy Knight was most known for his tenure at UCLA in 2001 where he solidified himself as a breakout star, starting 33 games and averaging 14 points and shooting 46 percent from the floor.
The news of Knight’s death has sent shockwaves through the basketball community, ex-NBA star Matt Barnes and a close friend responded to the news saying, “Rest Easy My Brotha! Your summertime beach workouts had me in the best shape of my life to start every season!”
Billy Knight was just 39 years old.
If you or someone you know is suffering from suicidal thoughts, call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
