Reports from the United States indicate he bled to death on Saturday after the shooting incident.

The Dallas Morning News reported that local police said Dejean-Jones was killed by a resident after breaking into an apartment.

The Associated Press reported officers were called early Saturday and found the 23-year-old player collapsed in an outdoor passageway, Senior Corporal DeMarquis Black said in a statement. Dejean-Jones was taken to a hospital where he died.

A person living at the apartment was sleeping when he heard his front door kicked open, Black said. The man retrieved a handgun and fired when Dejean-Jones began kicking the bedroom door.

Dejean-Jones was from Los Angeles and it wasn't immediately clear why he was in Dallas although media outlets have suggested he was trying to enter the apartment of his former girlfriend, with whom they have a child, but entered the wrong unit.

The Pelicans released a statement: "It is with deep sadness that the Pelicans organisation acknowledges the sudden passing of Bryce Dejean-Jones. We are devastated at the loss of this young man's life who had such a promising future ahead of him. Our thoughts and prayers are with Bryce's family during this difficult time."

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said the "NBA family mourns the tragic loss" of Dejean-Jones.

"Bryce inspired countless people with his hard work and perseverance on his journey to the NBA and he had a bright future in our league. Our thoughts and sympathies are with Bryce's family and the entire Pelicans organisation during this difficult time."

Dejean-Jones signed with the Pelicans on a 10-day contract in February after failing to make the roster in the pre-season.

The team was depleted due to several injuries and the rookie guard made the most of his opportunity and was signed to a three-year contract.

After averaging averaged 19.1 points and five rebounds per game during a short stint in the NBA Development League with the Idaho Stampede, he quickly earned a spot in coach Alvin Gentry's playing rotation.

He played 14 games and started 11 and appeared to have a big future in New Orleans. Dejean-Jones scored 17 points with nine rebounds against the Lakers in February before a wrist injury ended his rookie season.

"BDJ" played for three colleges - USC, UNLV and Iowa State - and went undrafted.

Chicago Bulls coach Fred Hoiberg, who coached Dejean-Jones at Iowa, released a statement: "We are deeply saddened to learn the tragic news about Bryce. I'm grateful that our paths crossed in this life. Bryce was a passionate and talented player that lived out his dream of playing in the NBA through hard work and perseverance. It's an incredibly sad day for me and all of Iowa State University. Our thoughts and prayers are with Bryce's family."

smh.com.au