The scheduled Friday game between the Golden State Warriors and the Dallas Mavericks has been postponed, as announced by the NBA on Thursday. This decision follows the unexpected passing of Warriors assistant coach Dejan Milojevic, 46, who suffered a heart attack during a private dinner in Salt Lake City before the team’s intended game against the Jazz.
Warriors Assistant Coach Dejan Milojevic Passes Away:
In an official statement released on Wednesday, the Golden State Warriors confirmed the sudden and tragic death of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic. The news prompted the postponement of the Warriors’ game against the Jazz, originally slated for Wednesday, allowing the team time to mourn the loss of their beloved coach.
For more details regarding the latest postponement involving the Golden State Warriors, refer to The Sporting News coverage below.
Reasons Behind the Postponement:
On January 18, the NBA officially declared the postponement of the Warriors’ upcoming game against the Mavericks. In light of this change, ESPN has adjusted its broadcast schedule and will now feature the game between the Brooklyn Nets and the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night.
Statements from Warriors Head Coach Steve Kerr and NBA Commissioner Adam Silver:
Following Milojevic’s passing, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr expressed profound sorrow in a team press release, honoring the late assistant coach. Kerr described Milojevic as not only an exceptional basketball coach but also an extraordinarily positive and beautiful human being who brought joy to each day with his passion and energy. The grieving coach extended condolences to Milojevic’s wife, Natasa, and their children, Nikola and Masa, acknowledging the unfathomable loss.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also conveyed condolences, mourning the sudden death of Dejan Milojevic, a cherished colleague and friend within the global basketball community. Silver highlighted Milojevic’s contributions to the Warriors’ 2022 NBA championship victory and his influential international playing career and coaching role in Serbia.
Uncertain Timeline for Warriors’ Return:
As of now, the Warriors’ return to action remains uncertain. The next scheduled game is set for Wednesday, January 24, at home against the Atlanta Hawks at 10 p.m. ET. The organization, players, and fans alike are grappling with the loss, and the NBA community mourns the passing of a respected figure in the basketball world.