In a poignant tribute to the late Serbian coach and Golden State assistant, Dejan Milojevic, the Warriors took the court at Chase Center for their first game since his sudden passing, passionately honoring Dejan Milojevic. The basketball world was left reeling by the news of Milojevic’s untimely departure, creating an emotional backdrop for a night that transcended the confines of a typical basketball game.
Honoring Dejan Milojevic in a Night of Resilience
In a night dedicated entirely to honoring their fallen comrade, the Warriors emerged victorious against the Atlanta Hawks with a commanding scoreline of 134-112. The players paid their respects in a unique and heartfelt manner, donning specially crafted t-shirts featuring Milojevic’s initials and the poignant Serbian word “brate,” meaning brother, during pregame warm-ups.
To further commemorate Milojevic’s legacy, the Serbian National Anthem echoed through the arena before the tip-off, setting a somber yet powerful tone for the evening. Golden State players went above and beyond, adorning jerseys bearing Milojevic’s surname during the pregame rituals, with these jerseys eventually finding a resting place on his customary seat on the bench.
Steve Kerr, visibly moved, addressed the crowd in an emotionally charged speech that tugged at the heartstrings of everyone present. Kerr painted a vivid picture of Milojevic as not just a coach but a cherished friend, a man of character, and a devoted family member. Kerr’s call for an ovation in lieu of a moment of silence saw the entire Chase Center erupt in applause, a fitting tribute to the late Serbian coach.
Amidst the emotional tributes, the game unfolded with an exceptional performance by Jonathan Kuminga, who achieved a perfect night with 25 points, nine rebounds, two steals, and two blocks, shooting an impressive 11/11 from the field. Kuminga’s flawless display tied him with Chris Mullin for the most shots without a miss in franchise history, establishing him as the only player with such remarkable numbers in the 21st century.
The European contingent also left their mark on the game, with Dario Saric contributing 10 points and showcasing his prowess with three rebounds and assists for the winning side. On the opposing team, Milojevic’s compatriot and Serbian national team captain, Bogdan Bogdanovic, finished the night with 17 points for the Hawks. Clint Capela added to the spectacle with a double-double, registering 11 points and securing rebounds.
As the Warriors triumphed on the court, the emotional undercurrent of the night lingered, a reminder of the profound impact Dejan Milojevic had on the basketball community. In this evening of mixed emotions, the Warriors not only celebrated victory but also paid a heartfelt and unique tribute to a man who will forever remain a part of their soul.
Comments