Having heard the sad news of the sudden death, yesterday, of young basketball player Haris Charalambous, I make no apologies for lifting the tribute, below, from the Manchester website.

I had the privilege of commentating on several U-18 matches in which Haris was involved, but would not pretend to have known him well, and it is far better that his obituary should come from those with whom he spent his formative basketball years.

His death is a sad loss to his family and friends, and to the sport which he loved, and at which he excelled. It also puts into stark perspective, any other problems that we have recently faced in the game.

From Manchester Magic's website at http://www.gmybasketball.co.uk/

"It is with great sadness that the Club have to announce the death of Haris Charalambous who was a young player with us between the ages of 13 - 18 years.

"Haris made such excellent progress that he was able to accept a scholarship at the Hun Prep School in New Jersey from 2003-04. Despite a serious foot injury keeping him on the sidelines for most of the season, he was recruited by Toledo, a Division 1 NCAA College in Ohio.

"Haris was entering his third year at Toledo and much looking forward to the season. He collapsed and died in training yesterday (Monday 9 October). He represented our Club impeccably on and off the floor during his 6 years with us and earned the respect of teammates and opponents alike.

"Our thoughts are with his parents, sister and friends at this sad time.

"Anyone wishing to contact Haris' family, please direct any mail to Joe Forber at the Amaechi Basketball Centre, Whalley Range."