The former NBL player Jason Joynes died this week at the age of 54. He was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer called neuroendocrine tumors.
According to the Cancer Council, this type of cancer affects the nerve cells and glands that produce hormones.
Two weeks ago, Joynes’ condition was revealed, and his former teams were raising money for his family.
Joynes started playing in the NBL when he was 19 years old, and he played for the Westside Melbourne Saints before he transferred to the Newcastle Falcons.
He then spent two seasons with the Geelong Supercats before he retired.
Joynes played for the Mount Gambier Pioneer for 10 seasons in the South East Asian Basketball League (SEABL). Despite his playing career, he also became a successful coach in South Australia.
He was able to help develop the next generation of basketball players by serving as an assistant coach for the SA Metro Under-16 girls in 2014 and the SA Metro Under-18 Boys in 2016 and 2018.
He also led the South Australian Under-20 Men’s team in 2019 and 2018.
Joynes was also able to help develop the next generation of basketball players by serving as an assistant coach for the SA Metro Under-16 girls in 2014 and 2018.
He was also able to coach the Woodville Warriors in 2021. The NBL released a statement regarding Joynes’ death.
The association representing professional basketball players also released a statement regarding his passing.
Over the course of his career, Joynes played over a hundred games in the NBL. He was a loving father and husband, and he was known for his contributions to the basketball community in Adelaide.
The association representing professional basketball players extends its condolences to his family and friends. Joynes is survived by his wife Michelle and his three children.