Earl Lloyd has passed away at the age of 86.

Lloyd was the first black player in NBA history, debuting in 1950 for the Washington Capitals.

"The NBA family has lost one of its patriarchs," NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. "Earl Lloyd, the first African-American to play in an NBA game, was as inspirational as he was understated. He was known as a modest gentleman who played the game with skill, class, and pride. His legacy survives in the league he helped integrate, and the entire NBA family will strive to always honor his memory. Our deepest condolences to the Lloyd family."