via @dwighthoward

After hearing the news of seven-year-old James Fisher's death, Houston Rockets star Dwight Howard posted a touching message to honor his buddy, with whom he had developed a special bond earlier this season.

Back in December, Fisher and Howard shared a heartwarming moment on the court together before a game:

Fisher, who had brain cancer, died on Monday. That news led to the heartfelt Instagram post from the Rockets center.

Howard included the following caption with the video:

Rest in peace lil James Fisher. He passed away a couple hours ago. He was the little kid I picked up to dunk a couple of months ago during pregame warmups. He also gave me the rubber band that says James strong. He was such an inspiration to me and my teammates. I have worn the band everyday since he gave it to me and I will continue to wear this band. You are in a better place. No more pain. No more hospital visits. Just peace love and happiness. And you can dunk as many times as u want. See u in heaven James.

[Instagram, h/t SI's Extra Mustard]