National Basketball Association

Horry's daughter dies after long illness

Published Jun. 15, 2011 1:48 a.m. ET

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The 17-year-old daughter of former NBA star Robert Horry died Tuesday after battling a rare genetic condition.

Ashlyn Horry was born in Houston in 1994 and eventually diagnosed with the 1p36 Deletion Syndrome, a rare chromosome disease that is characterized by intellectual disability, delayed growth, seizures and respiratory problems. Texas Children's Hospital spokeswoman Nicole Terry says Ashlyn Horry died there.

Robert Horry and Ashlyn's mother, Keva, set up a foundation in 2008 to provide support to families with children coping with similar illnesses. A message was left at the foundation's office seeking comment.

Robert Horry won seven NBA championships with three teams in 16 NBA seasons. He earned the nickname ''Big Shot Bob'' for hitting several clutch shots in the playoffs and holds the record for 3-pointers made in the NBA finals (53).

The Houston Rockets selected Horry out of Alabama with the 11th overall pick in the 1992 draft. Horry helped the Rockets win NBA championships in 1994 and '95.

''My deepest condolences go out to Robert and his family on the tragic passing of his daughter, Ashlyn,'' Rockets owner Leslie Alexander said in a statement. ''Ashlyn was born in Houston during Robert's time with us and I know he shared a special bond with her. The entire Rockets organization is saddened by her passing and our thoughts are with Robert and his family during this trying personal time.''

Horry played for the Los Angeles Lakers from 1996-2003, and was a member of three more championship teams there. Former Lakers star Magic Johnson offered condolences on his Twitter account.

''My thoughts go out to Robert Horry and his family as they deal with the tragic loss of his daughter Ashlyn,'' Johnson tweeted.

Horry finished his playing career in San Antonio, and won two titles with the Spurs to become the ninth player in league history to earn at least seven championship rings.