Steve Nash, Reggie Miller and Others Show Support as Heat Star Kevin Love Says Goodbye to His “First Hero”

The basketball world is mourning alongside Kevin Love as he says goodbye to a major figure in his life. Former NBA forward Stan Love, who also happened to be the brother of Beach Boys singer Mike Love, passed away at 76. A towering 6-foot-9 presence, Stan made his name at Morningside High and later starred at Oregon before the Baltimore Bullets picked him ninth overall in the 1971 NBA draft. Over four seasons, he averaged 6.8 points and 4.0 rebounds, suiting up for the Bullets, the Lakers, and even a short stint with San Antonio in the ABA.

Naturally, it was Kevin who shared the heartbreaking news first. In a touching Instagram post on Sunday night, Kevin wrote, “Dad, I’m so proud to be your son. My only hope is that you’re proud of me. It was all I ever wanted. Thank you for everything.” As soon as the post went up, the basketball community quickly rallied behind him, flooding social media with support and love during this incredibly difficult time.

Reggie Miller was one of the first to send prayers, writing, “Praying for peace for you and the family.. So right about healing starts from within.” Meanwhile, Steve Nash and DeMarcus Cousins filled the comments with heart emojis, while Matt Barnes left a heartfelt, “Condolences ❤,” and George Hill shared multiple prayer emojis.

Besides the legends, today’s stars also made their feelings known. Kevin Durant shared, “RIP Mr Stan. Pops always treated me like I was one of his own. What a great man.” Similarly, Isaiah Thomas commented, “I remember every time I stayed the weekend at your home, your pops always made me feel welcomed and taking care of. Stay strong and prayers to you and the family.” Their words truly showed how deeply Stan had impacted everyone around Kevin.

Finally, even though Kevin made the announcement while away from the Heat, he was present for Monday’s Game 4 in Miami against the Cavaliers. Before tip-off, Love shared an emotional hug with Tristan Thompson, though he didn’t suit up. After the game, Donovan Mitchell opened his TNT interview with, “I saw he was here. I didn’t get to see him. My brother, I love you. Just keeping you in my prayers.” Now, as Kevin bids farewell to his “first hero,” the NBA world stands firmly by his side.

Kevin Love’s emotional tribute to his “first Hero”

When Kevin Love shared the heartbreaking news about his father’s passing, it wasn’t just an announcement—it was an emotional tribute. On Instagram, Kevin opened up in the most raw and vulnerable way, calling Stan Love his “greatest teacher” and “first Hero.” The NBA star admitted, “Dad, you fought for a long time. The hardest stretch being these past 6 months… I still saw you as a Giant. My Protector. My first Hero.” You could feel every word. It wasn’t just grief—it was gratitude, respect, and an unshakable son-father bond laid bare.

And yet, that post was more than just a goodbye. Kevin made sure to remind everyone of the kind of man Stan really was. “The words we continuously heard from you in your last chapter were how blessed you’ve been to have such a loving family. And in return, how much you’ve loved your wife and kids. Your only wish was to be at home surrounded by your family when you took your dying breath. That breath came. And now it’s time to rest,” he wrote. Stan didn’t ask for much—just to be home, surrounded by the people he loved the most when his time came. That moment did come. And through Kevin’s words, it’s clear that love and family were the cornerstones of Stan’s life till his final breath.

What stood out even more was how Kevin connected the dots between who his father was and who he became. “You have undoubtedly been my greatest teacher,” he repeated. Stan instilled in him “respect & kindness,” “humor & wit,” and the kind of work ethic that made Kevin a five-time NBA All-Star and a world champion. So no, his success wasn’t accidental—it was built on values passed down by a man who led by example.

Still, things weren’t always perfect. Kevin also opened up about the tension they shared over the years. “Over the years my Dad and I had our differences…But our division led to me finding myself,” he admitted. But even those tough moments led to growth. “The best last lesson one generation can teach the next: how to die with peace about how you’ve lived.” It’s rare to hear someone talk about fatherhood like that—and Kevin didn’t miss the chance to honor both the beauty and the complexity of their relationship. “We are a successful story of father and son.”

Finally, in a sentence that stung with honesty, he said, “Dad, I’m so proud to be your son. My only hope is that you’re proud of me.” Even while mourning the biggest loss of his life, Kevin made it clear—his father’s pride was the only thing he ever really wanted. And Kevin, if Stan were here, there’s no question—he absolutely would be. Rest in peace, Stan.