Raptors' RJ Barrett opens up following 19-year-old brother's death: 'I'm always missing him'

Fox News Flash top sports headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

Sixth-year NBA guard RJ Barrett broke his silence on the death of his 19-year-old brother Nathan Barrett.

The younger brother of the Toronto Raptors star died earlier this month. Barrett says he still calls and sends messages to his brother, whom he described as his best friend.

"You know, he was my best friend," Barrett said of his late brother on Friday. "I’m always missing him. I still text him.

"I still call them sometimes, but yeah, just a tough time, but I’m thankful for just all the support from everybody. And, you know, definitely the Raptors, being able to give me that time, and just welcoming me back."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

RJ Barrett of the Toronto Raptors dribbles during the game against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena in Denver on March 11.  (Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)

Barrett, who spent the majority of his pro basketball career to date with the New York Knicks, was emotional as he explained how he is navigating the difficult time.

"I’ve had some people in my life, but this one hit a little harder for me," he said of Nathan's death. "This one is definitely a little different, it’s a lot tougher, and I just think that you’ve gotta push forward every day, gotta be able to try to figure it out."

VIEW MOMENT ON X

Barrett said his brother would simply want him to continue playing basketball.

"If I know my brother, he would want me to be here, to be playing, to try to continue to make the Barrett legacy grow," he said.

Toronto Raptors guard RJ Barrett drives against Tre Mann of the Charlotte Hornets during the game at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto on March 3. (Cole Burston/Getty Images)

Nath