Brad Branson, a former NBA power forward who went on to build a long and successful professional career in Europe, has died at the age of 67.
Branson spent two seasons in the NBA with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Indiana Pacers after being selected in the second round of the 1980 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons. Though drafted by Detroit, he never appeared in a game for the franchise, instead beginning a basketball journey that would span continents and more than a decade.
A standout at Southern Methodist University, Branson launched his professional career overseas in Italy with Sarila Rimini before returning to the United States for the 1981–82 season. He played for the Anchorage Northern Knights in the Continental Basketball Association, where he quickly made an impact and earned CBA Newcomer of the Year honors.
Branson re-entered the NBA late in the 1981–82 season, appearing in 10 games for the Cavaliers and starting three of them. The following October, he was traded to the Indiana Pacers for a future draft pick. During the 1982–83 season, he played 62 games for Indiana, serving as a reliable role player in limited minutes.
Across 72 total NBA games, Branson averaged about 5.4 points and 2.9 rebounds per game.
After his NBA stint, Branson returned to Europe, where he found his greatest success. He played in Italy with Silverstone Brescia from 1983 to 1986 before joining Real Madrid, one of the most prestigious clubs in European basketball. During his time in Spain, Branson became a star, helping Real Madrid win the Korac Cup in 1988. In the 1986–87 season, he averaged 22.3 points and 9.5 rebounds per game while logging heavy minutes.
Real Madrid released a statement mourning his passing, noting that Branson played 100 games for the club over two seasons and was part of a championship-winning squad.
In 1988, Branson moved to Pamesa Valencia, just as the club earned promotion to Spain’s top division. He became a cornerstone of the team over six seasons, leaving a lasting legacy. By the time he retired in 1994, Branson had played more seasons with Valencia than any other American-born player.
After stepping away from professional basketball, Branson returned to the United States and coached at the high school level. Fluent in Spanish, he later returned to Valencia, where he pursued various business ventures, including restaurants and other enterprises.