WTAE Pittsburgh reports:

Armen Gilliam, a 6-foot-9 forward from Bethel Park who was known as “The Hammer” for his physical style of basketball, died Wednesday night. He was 47.

Police said Gilliam had a heart attack and collapsed while playing basketball at LA Fitness in Collier Township. He was rushed to St. Clair Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

In college, Gilliam starred on the No. 1-ranked UNLV Runnin’ Rebels team that won a record 38 games and went to the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament in 1987.

The Phoenix Suns chose Gilliam with the No. 2 overall pick in the first round of the NBA Draft in 1987. He also played for the Charlotte Hornets, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, Milwaukee Bucks and Utah Jazz before retiring in 2000.

InsideHoops.com editor says: Wow, this is tragic. Armen was an EXTREMELY nice guy. He and I met February in Los Angeles during 2011 NBA All-Star weekend. He had just called me recently, looking to reach out and see what’s up. Earlier today, when I heard the news, I texted him, really hoping to not receive silence in return… But, he’s gone… I’m sorry, and wish all the best to his friends and family.

Read fan reaction and discuss your own opinion in this forum topic.