It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Daryle Morgan on August 20, 2025.
Daryle was a pioneer, a champion, NGBA Hall of Famer, and above all, a friend to so many in our basketball family. After his college career at Stanford University, he found his way into San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ basketball community, where his presence forever elevated the basketball community. In his first tournament outing he captured a Gold Medal at the 1990 Vancouver Gay Games with the San Francisco Pacers and later became the Captain of the inaugural class of the Gay Basketball Hall of Fame in 2000 during the 10th National Championship tournament—a role that reflected not just his talent, but his leadership and the respect he earned from all who knew him.
Daryle was more than what he accomplished on the court. He was a true gentleman—fierce in competition, yet kind and generous in spirit. He built lifelong friendships, mentored countless athletes, and carried himself with the grace and dignity of someone who understood that basketball was never just about wins and losses, but about family, belonging, and joy.
In his own Hall of Fame reflection, Daryle wrote:
“What a blessing it is to look back and smile with love about 12+ years, 4 Gay Games, 30+ tournaments, and the family and lifelong friends that came with this basketball adventure. Who knew when I wandered into a gym in the Castro in 1990 that all these gifts would come my way?”
The NGBA will remember Daryle Morgan as a true competitor, a true leader, and a true friend. His legacy lives on in every player he inspired, every team he lifted, and every community that he helped shape.
We mourn his loss deeply, but we also celebrate the light he brought into our world.
National Gay Basketball Association
