PJ also represented Counties Manukau and Auckland age groups, New Zealand U19s, the Auckland Stars and Taranaki Mountain Airs.
Basketball Auckland said its community was deeply saddened.
“PJ was a much-loved and respected part of Auckland basketball, giving so much to our game over many years as a player, coach and mentor,” a statement posted to social media read.
Auckland basketball coach PJ King died suddenly at 45.
“A talented player who represented New Zealand as a Junior Tall Black and played for numerous regional representative teams, PJ went on to dedicate much of his life to developing the next generation of players.
“He founded the Eastern Bays Jellyfish, coached at Saint Kentigern Boys’ School for more than a decade, and in recent years had been involved in the Saint Kentigern College Premier Boys’ Team. This year coached our Auckland U16 Girls representative team.
“Through his passion, generosity and commitment to basketball, PJ touched the lives of so many young people and families. His contribution went well beyond the basketball court, and he leaves a lasting legacy in our community.”
A Givealittle page was set up to help support his family’s financial burden and funeral costs.
“We are all deeply saddened by the sudden passing of PJ, a truly incredible man who gave so much to his family, his community and the countless people whose lives he touched,” a statement on the page read.
“PJ and his wife Krissy built and ran their basketball business together, and basketball was a huge part of their lives.
“But PJ’s impact went far beyond basketball. He gave his time, energy and support to so many organisations, groups and individuals, always willing to help where he could and make a difference to those around him.
PJ King represented the Taranaki Mountain Airs during hi splaying days. Photo / Photosport
“There simply aren’t enough words to describe the man PJ was or the depth of his love for his family and the people in his life.
“He was someone who showed up for others, gave so much of himself and left a lasting mark on so many people.”
An email sent by St Kentigern’s College principal Damon Emtage confirmed the school will hold a memorial for King.
“For more than a decade, Mr King played an important role in basketball programmes across the Saint Kentigern community, coaching and mentoring our players,” the email read.
“Through his involvement at the Boys School, PJ made a lasting contribution to generations of Saint Kentigern players.”
The college planned to provide meals through the parents and friends “Food From the Heart” initiative to support King’s family.
A celebration of King’s life is in the St Kentigern College Gymnasium tomorrow from 10am.