NBA star RJ Barrett is granted personal leave from the Toronto Raptors 'following the shock death of his younger brother Nathan' - as former coach reveals news on social media

RJ Barrett will miss the Toronto Raptors' game against the Orlando Magic on Friday after the sudden death of his younger brother Nathan.

On Thursday, it was reported that Barrett, 23, will miss his second straight game due to personal reasons. Hours later, news of Nathan, four years RJ's junior, passing away surfaced with a heartfelt tribute from former coach Chris Stewart.

Stewart coached the Barretts in the Mississauga Monarchs in their native Canada.

'On March 12, my extended Monarch's family lost another member, Nathan Barrett,' Stewart wrote on Instagram. 'It's hard to believe this is the second time this has happened to my family and basketball community. Nathan was only with us for a short time in Grade 7 before he moved to Florida, but whenever he was back in Mississauga, the boys connected.

'I saw Nathan last summer, all grown up, a big smile and he was excited telling me how he was starting school to become a pilot. I always tell my former players if you were on my team even one season, you will always be my family and don't forget it.'

RJ Barrett will miss the Raptors' game against Orlando after the death of his brother Nathan (R)

Former coach Chris Stewart wrote a heartfelt tribute to Nathan on Instagram after his death 

Barrett will miss his second straight game as the Raptors sit 12th in the Eastern Conference

'If you have had the pleasure of knowing this family you know how much they do for the basketball community so keep them in your thoughts and prayers. No parent should ever have to bury a child, hug your kids today a little longer. You will be missed Nathan, RIP.'

On Thursday evening, the Raptors and Canada basketball released a statement from the Barrett family. 

'It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the loss of our beloved son and brother, Nathan Tyler Barrett, who passed away on Tuesday, March 12, surrounded by his family, church and friends,' the statement read. 

'While our family devastated by this great loss, we will continue to cherish the memories and time spent together. Nathan was a God-fearing young man of strong character. He was thoughtful, kind, loving, compassionate, creative, admirable and driven.

'During this difficult time, out family would like to ask for privacy and greatly appreciates the outpouring love, support and prayers that we have been receiving. Though his time with us was brief, he will live forever in our hearts.'  

The cause of Nathan's death has not been revealed. Nathan was RJ's only sibling.

While his Instagram page is private, Nathan's bio has the bible verse 'Jeremiah 29:11' on top and 'Aspiring Pilot' after the Canadian and Jamaican flags. He also wrote 'Toronto/Miami' at the bottom.