Former Tar Heel Ademola Okulaja passes away
The UNC family received some terrible news on Tuesday when it was announced that former Tar Heels’ basketball player Ademola Okulaja has passed away. Okulaja was 46 and the cause of death was related to his battle with cancer per Inside Carolina.
The forward was a four-year player at North Carolina from 1995-99 and was part of Bill Guthridge’s six starters rotation from the 1997-98 season joining Vince Carter, Shammond Williams, Ed Cota, Antawn Jamison and Makhtar N’Diaye. In his time with the Tar Heels, Okulaja reached the Final Four twice.
Following his time at North Carolina, Okulaja played overseas for 10 seasons from 1999-2009. He spent time playing in Italy, Spain, Russia and Germany.
This is so painful….we’re going to miss you my boy. RIP @Oak1713 🙏🏽🕊 I’m praying for your kids and family. Without a doubt you have touched the lives of many with your kindness. 1 thing for sure you will not be forgotten….
Love you Oak
#3MusketeersForever pic.twitter.com/3m2Y52RHwi— Vince Carter (@mrvincecarter15) May 17, 2022
In his final season with the program, Okulaja earned First Team All-ACC honors and was the first player in program history to lead the Tar Heels in scoring, rebounding, three-pointers made, and steals.
Okulaja also spent time playing for the German National Team in his career.
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