Tragedy Strikes the Warriors: Assistant Coach Dejan Milojević Passes Away at 46
The Golden State Warriors are in mourning following the sudden and tragic passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojević, who succumbed to a fatal heart attack at the age of 46. The devastating incident occurred during a private team dinner in Salt Lake City, Utah, on Wednesday evening. Despite valiant efforts to save his life, Milojević passed away early the following morning, leaving behind a profound void in the Warriors family.
A Statement of Profound Grief from Head Coach Steve Kerr
Warriors Head Coach Steve Kerr expressed his deep sorrow and devastation at the sudden loss of Milojević. He described Milojević as an exceptional basketball coach and an extraordinary human being who brought joy and light to every day with his passion and energy. Kerr extended heartfelt condolences to Milojević’s wife, Natasa, and their children, Nikola and Masa, acknowledging the immeasurable loss they were enduring.
Milojević’s Coaching Journey: From Serbia to the NBA
Milojević’s basketball journey began in his native Serbia, where he served as the head coach of KK Mega Basket in Belgrade for eight seasons, from 2012 to 2020. During his tenure, he guided the team to several domestic championships and made a significant impact on the development of young players. In December 2019, he was appointed as an assistant coach for the Serbian national team under Igor Kokoškov.
Milojević’s international coaching experience also included stints with the Atlanta Hawks Summer League staff in 2016, the San Antonio Spurs in 2017, and the Houston Rockets in 2018. These opportunities allowed him to broaden his coaching horizons and learn from some of the most respected minds in the NBA.
Joining the Warriors and Contributing to a Championship Run
In 2021, Milojević joined the Golden State Warriors as an assistant coach, bringing his wealth of knowledge and experience to the team. He quickly became an integral part of the coaching staff, contributing to the Warriors’ run to the 2022 NBA Championship. His dedication, work ethic, and positive attitude made him a valuable asset to the organization, and his sudden passing has left a deep void in the Warriors’ locker room.
A Legacy of Excellence and Inspiration
Milojević’s legacy extends beyond his coaching accomplishments. He was known for his unwavering commitment to player development, his ability to connect with players on a personal level, and his infectious enthusiasm for the game of basketball. His passion for the sport and his dedication to his craft inspired countless players and coaches who had the privilege of working with him.
A Profound Loss for the Basketball Community
The passing of Dejan Milojević is a profound loss for the basketball community. His contributions to the sport, both as a coach and as a mentor, will be deeply missed. His positive impact on the lives of countless players and colleagues will serve as a lasting testament to his legacy. The Golden State Warriors and the entire NBA family extend their heartfelt condolences to Milojević’s family and friends during this difficult time.
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Warriors Assistant Coach Dejan Milojević Passes Away at 46
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Golden State Warriors assistant coach Dejan Milojević passed away on Wednesday morning at the age of 46 after suffering a heart attack at a private team dinner in Salt Lake City.
Milojević was in his third season with the Warriors after joining the team in 2021. He was a member of the coaching staff during Golden State’s run to the 2022 NBA Championship.
Before joining the Warriors, Milojević spent the 2021 season as head coach of KK Budućnost in the Adriatic League in Montenegro. He also served as the head coach for KK Mega Basket in Belgrade, Serbia, for eight seasons (2012-20).
In December 2019, Milojević was named an assistant coach for the Serbian national team under Igor Kokoškov. He was also a member of the Atlanta Hawks Summer League staff in 2016, the San Antonio Spurs in 2017, and the Houston Rockets in 2018.
Milojević is survived by his wife, Natasa, and two children, Nikola and Masa.
The Warriors released a statement expressing their condolences to Milojević’s family and friends.
“We are absolutely devastated by Dejan’s sudden passing,” Warriors Head Coach Steve Kerr said. “This is a shocking and tragic blow for everyone associated with the Warriors and an incredibly difficult time for his family, friends, and all of us who had the incredible pleasure to work with him. In addition to being a terrific basketball coach, Dejan was one of the most positive and beautiful human beings I have ever known, someone who brought joy and light to every single day with his passion and energy. We grieve with and for his wife, Natasa, and their children, Nikola and Masa. Their loss is unfathomable.”
The NBA also released a statement expressing its condolences.
“The NBA family is deeply saddened by the passing of Dejan Milojević,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said. “Dejan was a respected coach and a beloved member of the basketball community. His passion for the game was evident in everything he did, and he will be dearly missed. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Golden State Warriors organization.”
Milojević’s passing is a tragic loss for the basketball community. He was a talented coach and a dedicated mentor who touched the lives of countless players and colleagues. He will be deeply missed.