The NBA, the Warriors but also and above all Serbian basketball are in mourning after the announcement of the death Dejan Milojevic, died of a heart attack at the age of 46. A former renowned club and national player, the Warriors assistant was also a great coach, and even a great trainer. At Mega Basket, he had under his command many Europeans, who had worked in the NBA, including… Nikola Jokic.
While his Hawks won at the buzzer against the Magic, Bogdan Bogdanovic is inconsolable. “I don’t even remember what I did tonight.” he admits. “I remember the warm-up, but I don't even know what I did. I missed a few exercises in my routine. I had considered not playing, but I figured he wouldn't have liked it if I didn't play. »
Milojevic put his family before basketball
Author of 12 points coming off the bench, Bogdanovic is in shock. “Like everyone in Serbia, we can't believe it… Because this guy was a monster. Always positive. “It’s so sad when you think about the impact he had on so many players and people around the world,” Bogdanovic said. “One thing I will never, ever forget is that he never sought a career. »
The Hawks back clarifies his remarks. “He was a great player, but he never sought to make a career. He always wanted to live with his family with his children in beautiful cities. He never chased money. I think it's a great example for everyone. For him, you cannot perform well in your work if you do not love your life. You cannot make the most of your potential if you are not happy in your life, because sometimes people value their work more than other things. »
Darko Rajakovic loses a role model
Same emotion from Darko Rajakovic, the Raptors coach. “ I had known Dejan since I was a teenager. He was a model as a player, as a man, as a husband, as a coach. The last time we spoke, he told me about his dream of coaching Serbia. He will no longer be there to share his dreams” the Serb reacted before the match against the Heat. Then he thanked his players for winning against Miami, and, with reddened eyes, he dedicated this victory to his friend.
To pay tribute to him, Rajakovic decided to start the meeting with a system that Rajakovic had taught him.
“I told my guys I loved them.”
An emotional Darko Rajaković on his pre-game message to the Raptors.
Darko also dedicated the win to the late Dejan Milojević. pic.twitter.com/6kk2GdjRZC
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) January 18, 2024
