Paul Pierce recently made the news for commenting on fellow NBA veteran Richard Jefferson. The Boston Celtics legend landed in hot water for calling Jefferson an overrated player, which did not sit well with the latter. The 2016 NBA champion soon clapped back at Pierce with an opinion of his own. However, before the beef could escalate any further, Pierce shared the most devastating news of his life that left Jefferson and the entire NBA world dejected.

Pierce recently appeared on the latest episode of I Am Athlete podcast, where he talked about his NBA career and the time he got fired from ESPN. The former Celtics star raised several eyebrows when he stated that Jefferson was the most overrated player he had played against. However, ‘the Truth’ later on shared an update that prompted many fans and Jefferson himself to respond with heavy hearts.

Grief-stricken Paul Pierce mourns a huge loss

Soon after the podcast episode was released, Paul Pierce took to Instagram to share the news of his mother Lorraine Hosey’s passing. His mother was part of the reason why Pierce pursued sports from a very young age. The 10x All-Star shared a couple of pictures of his mother with a caption that read, “???I don?t even know what to say . Sad day today . ???I love u Mom”

As a single mother of three boys, Lorraine had to move mountains to propel her kids in the path of success. Pierce has admitted on numerous occasions that his mother’s constant motivation was one of the chief driving forces behind his Hall-of-Fame career.

The 2008 NBA champion was a handful to deal with in his childhood. In fact, he once burned down the family home at Oakland, California, while playing with matches when he was just seven years old. However, Lorraine never sought anyone’s help to raise her boys into successful men, braving her way through every adversity.

Meanwhile, Richard Jefferson, who had earlier slammed Pierce with a tweet, didn’t take long to delete the post and send his condolences to the 2008 Finals MVP.

READ MORE -??Nothing Wrong With Having Some Strippers?: NBA Champion Paul Pierce Revisits ESPN Controversy as Fans Come in Defense of the Celtics Legend

Jefferson shared another tweet that read, “Somethings are bigger than basketball. Thoughts with Paul Pierce right now”

Similarly, several veteran athletes reached out to Pierce via comments, including Ray Allen, who wrote, “Sorry for your loss! The Allens are keeping you and your family in our prayers. ??”

NBA fans offer their condolences

Shortly after Pierce shared the heart-breaking news, fans were quick to join in his grief with comforting words and support. One fan wrote, “Sending love and prayers to you and the family, P.” Whereas, 2x All-Star Stephon Marbury’s comment read, “Condolences paul. Prayers to you and your family!” Take a look at a few more of the comments.

WATCH THIS STORY: Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant And Other NBA Stars Sharing Memorable Moments With Barack Obama

“Love you Paul sorry for your loss”

“@paulpierce Prayers ??? For Your Mom ? ? Sending My Condolences ? To You And Your Family ? Stay Strong ??”

“Prayers up for you and your fam P???? Much Love Bro.”

“Condolences to you and your family.”

“Thinking of you and your family P ???”