Bogdan Bogdanovic Plays Through Grief After Loss of Friend and Serbian Assistant Coach Dejan Milojević

Atlanta Forward Honors Milojević’s Memory with Determined Performance

ATLANTA, GA – In a poignant display of resilience, Atlanta Hawks forward Bogdan Bogdanovic took to the court against the Orlando Magic, carrying the weight of a profound loss on his shoulders. The Hawks emerged victorious in a nail-biting 106-104 encounter at State Farm Arena, but the triumph was bittersweet for Bogdanovic, who played with a heavy heart following the tragic passing of his friend and fellow Serbian, Dejan Milojević.

Milojević, an esteemed assistant coach for the Golden State Warriors, succumbed to a heart attack at the untimely age of 46, leaving the basketball community in mourning. The loss hit Bogdanovic particularly hard, as he struggled to come to terms with the sudden departure of a close confidant and fellow countryman.

“I don’t even know what I did tonight,” Bogdanovic confessed after the game, his voice laden with emotion. “I remember warm-ups. I don’t know what I was doing. I forgot a couple of my routines.”

Prior to the game, a moment of silence was observed at State Farm Arena to honor Milojević’s memory, a poignant tribute that resonated deeply with Bogdanovic and his teammates. Coming off the bench in his customary sixth-man role, Bogdanovic played just under 24 minutes, his mind grappling with the immense loss.

“Like everyone else in Serbia, we couldn’t believe the news,” Bogdanovic said, his words tinged with sorrow. “Because that guy was a beast. Always positive.”

Though Bogdanovic never had the opportunity to play under Milojević’s tutelage, their shared Serbian heritage forged a natural bond between them. Bogdanovic held Milojević in high regard, not only for his basketball prowess but also for his unwavering commitment to family and his refusal to compromise his values for career advancement.

“He was a great player, but he never chased his career,” Bogdanovic emphasized. “He always wanted to live a family lifestyle with his kids in the good cities. He never chased money. I feel that’s a great example for everyone.”

Milojević’s impact extended beyond the basketball court, leaving an enduring legacy as a mentor and a role model. His belief that personal happiness is a prerequisite for maximizing one’s potential resonated with Bogdanovic and countless others who had the privilege of knowing him.

“He believed that if you don’t like your life, there is no way you can perform in your job, you cannot maximize your job,” Bogdanovic explained. “You cannot maximize your potential if you’re not happy in your life because sometimes people value more their jobs and some other stuff.”

Milojević’s coaching career spanned Serbia, Montenegro, and the United States, where he spent three seasons with the Golden State Warriors. He also served as an assistant coach for the Serbian national team alongside current Atlanta assistant coach Igor Koskoskov.

Hawks head coach Quin Snyder acknowledged the profound impact of Milojević’s passing on Bogdanovic, expressing his understanding of the emotional toll it takes to lose a close friend.

“It’s tragic,” Snyder said. “They were close, very close. I know how difficult it is for him right now … his sense of loss.”

Bogdanovic initially considered sitting out Atlanta’s game against the Magic to grieve privately, but he ultimately decided to play, honoring his friend’s memory by doing what he loved.

“I was thinking about not showing up tonight, when I couldn’t sleep and I was out of my routine,” Bogdanovic revealed. “But then I was like, he would not want me to do that.”

In a moving tribute to his departed friend, Bogdanovic played with unwavering determination, pouring his heart and soul into every possession. Though the game itself may fade from his memory, the emotions he carried with him that night will forever remain etched in his mind.

Bogdanovic’s resilience in the face of tragedy serves as a powerful reminder of the unwavering spirit that drives athletes to overcome adversity and honor the memory of those they hold dear.

Call to Action

As we reflect on the life and legacy of Dejan Milojević, let us draw inspiration from his unwavering commitment to family, his dedication to his craft, and his belief in the power of personal happiness. In his honor, let us strive to live our lives with purpose and passion, cherishing the bonds we share with those we love.