SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The NBA paid tribute to the late Terrence Clarke, a presumptive pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, with a touching tribute.

The league held its annual 2021 NBA Draft at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York on Thursday, July 29.

Midway through the first round, NBA commissioner Adam Silver paid tribute to Clark and his family with a honorary selection. Silver called Clarke’s name and brought the late player’s family on stage.

The former Kentucky Wildcats guard passed away following a car accident in April. He was 19 years old.

Clarke was expected to be a pick during the 2021 NBA Draft.

With the next pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, the NBA selects Terrence Clarke from the University of Kentucky. #LLTC5 💙🤍 pic.twitter.com/fJYvShrgK3

— NBA (@NBA) July 30, 2021

Hours before the NBA Draft, Utah Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell recalled his time working out with Clarke and shared a pre-draft message.

“You should’ve been here bro!! I saw the countless hours and time you put into this game! Now your up there hoopin in Gods gym! I love you my boy Rest In Paradise,” Mitchell tweeted.

You should’ve been here bro!! I saw the countless hours and time you put into this game! Now your up there hoopin in Gods gym! I love you my boy Rest In Paradise 🕊💙 #LLTC5 pic.twitter.com/thvV8GnGNA

— Donovan Mitchell (@spidadmitchell) July 29, 2021

During his only season at Kentucky, Clarke averaged 9.6 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 2.0 assists.

The NBA Draft is broadcast on ABC, ESPN, and NBA TV.