NBA News: Bulls Legend Scottie Pippen's Son Dies At Age 33

An NBA Hall of Famer is going through one of the toughest challenges of his life.

Scottie Pippen’s eldest son, Antron Pippen, has died at age 33, the Chicago Bulls legend announced on Instagram on Monday.

In a heartfelt statement, Pippen, 55, paid tribute to Antron, whom he described as a “beautiful soul gone way too soon.”

“I’m heartbroken to share that yesterday, I said goodbye to my firstborn son Antron,” Pippen wrote. “The two of us shared a love for basketball and we had countless conversations about the game. Antron suffered from chronic asthma and if he hadn’t had it, I truly believe he would've made it to the NBA. He never let that get him down, though—Antron stayed positive and worked hard, and I am so proud of the man that he became.”

“A kind heart and beautiful soul [have] gone way too soon,” he added. “I love you, son, rest easy until we meet again.”

Scottie and his family members have yet to disclose the cause of Antron’s death, ESPN reported.

Antron was once a promising basketball prospect, having established his game during high school and college. He played for South Georgia Tech and Texas A&M International.

Meanwhile, Scotty Pippen Jr., Scottie’s eldest son from his estranged wife Larsa, looks set to enter the pros.

Pippen Jr. confirmed on social media earlier this month that he is entering the 2021 NBA Draft. For the time being, the Vanderbilt guard will retain his college eligibility.

“We all have dreams and I am ready to pursue mine. Therefore, I will be declaring for the 2021 NBA Draft while retaining my collegiate eligibility” Pippen Jr. wrote in a statement on Twitter.“

“I was blessed to have the opportunity to come to Vanderbilt University and throughout the highs and lows, the Commodore community has been amazing. I’ll never forget that,” he continued.

Pippen Jr.’s NBA dreams are still uncertain at this point, having not ranked among the Top 100 draft prospects by ESPN.

The 20-year-old could still see himself returning to school and continue playing the remaining two years of his collegiate eligibility as he makes a final decision on whether he will keep his name in the draft.

The sophomore guard had an impressive breakout season for Vanderbilt last year, having recorded 20.8 points, 4.9 assists, and 1.8 steals per game. He also led the team in all three categories.