Rookie Brandin Podziemski Extends Heartwarming Gesture to Late Dejan Milojevic

Dejan Milojevic’s sudden and unexpected passing shocked the NBA world, leaving players, coaches, and fans grieving the beloved personality. He passed away after experiencing a serious health condition during a team meal in Salt Lake City, where the Warriors were set to face the Utah Jazz. Following the unfortunate demise of the Golden State Warriors assistant coach, Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski paid a touching homage to his mentor and coach on social media.

In a moving message on X, Podziemski expressed his gratitude to have Milojevic in his life, recalling the valuable guidance he got from the assistant coach. He said, “You changed my life in such a short time. The most important thing you ever told me was to just smile! Your joy and laughs will forever be missed. Shine down on us from heaven. Rest In Peace Dejan Milojević.” 

After that, in the last game against the Pacers, Podziemski gave another heartfelt tribute to Milojevic by writing his initials with chalk powder and drawing a heart showing his love for him.

The heartfelt message from Podziemski reflects the deep bond between him and Dejan Milojevic and encapsulates his character, highlighting his cheerfulness and genuine warmth, which inspired people around him. However, not only him, but the entire basketball community had come together to mourn Milojevic.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released a statement saying, “The NBA mourns the sudden passing of Golden State Warriors assistant coach Dejan Milojević, a beloved colleague and dear friend to so many in the global basketball community.” However, not only by words, but all the Dubs players also paid Dejan Milojevic a tribute on the court in the presence of his family.

What did the Warriors do to show their respect and love to Deki?

The players carried out a heartfelt ceremony at Chase Center before their first game since Milojevic’s tragic passing versus the Hawks. They wore jerseys with Milojevic’s last name on the back, while others wore black shirts with the Serbian word ‘Brate,’ which means ‘brother,’ in respect of his Serbian roots. His family attended the emotional ceremony, where they received flowers from Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy.

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Even a vacant seat with a flower and shirt was present at the Chase Center which served as a devastating reminder of Milojevic’s absence. However, instead of observing a minute of quiet, Kerr requested a standing ovation in Milojevic’s honor, inspiring the audience to rise to its feet in a powerful show of gratitude and respect for their beloved coach and underlining the lasting legacy of his optimism and enthusiasm for the game.

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