First African-American NBA player, Earl Lloyd, dies at 86

Earl Lloyd, the first black player to ever play in the NBA, died on Thursday at the age of 86.

The Associated Press noted that his death was confirmed by West Virginia State, where he played his college ball, however, details surrounding how he died have not been released.

"The State family mourns the loss of a fellow Yellow Jacket and trailblazer who was a true champion both on and off of the basketball court," West Virginia State President Brian Hemphill said in a statement. "When Earl stepped out on the court on that fateful date in 1950, this remarkable man rightfully earned his place in the historic civil rights movement and, more important, he opened the door to equality in America."

The small forward began his career with Washington, then played for Syracuse, where he won an NBA title in 1960, and his final stop was with the Detroit Pistons.

Former NBA star Vince Carter paid tribute to Lloyd on Twitter.

RIP to Mr. Earl Lloyd you opened that ever so important door for all African American athletes. Thank You!!!! 's up to your family

— Vince Carter (@mrvincecarter15) February 27, 2015

And, during halftime of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Phoenix Suns game, former players and TNT analysts Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith spoke about what Lloyd meant to them.

Lloyd is survived by his wife, three sons, four grandchildren and so many in the basketball community.