NBA: Los Angeles Lakers player Wayne Ellington’s father shot dead in car

THE father of Los Angeles Lakers player Wayne Ellington was shot dead inside his car on Sunday night, the NBA team said.

Los Angeles Lakers' Wayne Ellington, center, drives between Portland Trail Blazers' Allen Crabbe, left, and Dorell Wright during the first half of a preseason NBA basketball game Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2014, in Ontario, Calif. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

THE father of Los Angeles Lakers player Wayne Ellington was shot dead inside his car on Sunday night, the NBA team said.

The 26-year-old Ellington, who goes by the same name as his father, has taken a leave of absence from the team.

Wayne Ellington Sr. was found in his car in Philadelphia. He was 57 years old.

“Our players are upset for their friend and teammate. Additionally, ownership and all Lakers employees are also saddened by this tragedy,” Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak said.

Wayne Ellington, whose father was shot and killed Sunday in Philadelphia, has been granted an indefinite leave of absence from the team.

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) November 11, 2014

“Those of us who work with and have gotten to know Wayne (junior) have come to know what a wonderful and caring person he is. Our hearts go out to Wayne and his family, as do our thoughts and prayers.”

Ellington is in his first season with the last-place Lakers after spending the last season with Dallas. In five games this season, Ellington has averaged 7.8 points and 3.4 rebounds.

Originally published as NBA: Los Angeles Lakers player Wayne Ellington’s father shot dead in car