Canadian basketball player dies in Bahrain at age 27

A Canadian professional basketball player from Brampton, Ont., has died in Bahrain at the age of 27.

Kenny Ejim was playing with Al-Najma in the Bahraini Premier League, the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) said Tuesday in a statement confirming his death. There's no word yet on how he died.

Ejim played for the CEBL's Hamilton Honey Badgers last season and with the Saskatchewan Rattlers in 2020.

"His hard work and infectious personality motivated his teammates and inspired younger players to pursue their dreams. As much as Kenny derived from the game, he gave back far more," the CEBL said in the statement.

"Our sympathy and prayers are with all who knew Kenny as a family member, friend and teammate. He will be greatly missed."

CBC News spoke with a member of Ejim's family who said the family is asking for privacy at this time.

Mike Morreale, commissioner and CEO of the league, said the news of his death is a shock.

Morreale said Ejim went to Bahrain to continue his career in the off-season and to become a better basketball player. He was the star of his team there, he added.

"He was such a personable guy. I know his teammates loved him. I know the fans loved him. He left a mark," he said.

"We were excited to welcome him back home in May this season to one of our teams. It certainly is a difficult day."

The Hamilton Honey Badgers organization said in a statement on Tuesday that it is "deeply saddened." The team described Ejim as a "valuable" member during the 2021 season and a friend to many people in the Canadian basketball community.

"Kenny brought a high level of energy to our organization on and off the court, and he was an exceptional teammate,' the organization said.

"Kenny had a smile that could light up an