Beloved Warriors Assistant Coach Dejan Milojević Succumbs to Heart Attack at 46
A Tragic Loss for the Warriors Family and the Basketball Community
In a devastating turn of events, the Golden State Warriors coaching staff and the entire NBA community are mourning the untimely passing of Dejan Milojević, the team’s esteemed assistant coach, who suffered a fatal heart attack at a private team dinner in Salt Lake City, Utah. Despite valiant efforts to save his life, Milojević, at the age of 46, passed away early Wednesday morning, leaving an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who knew and worked with him.
A Profound Loss for the Warriors Family
Warriors Head Coach Steve Kerr, visibly shaken and grief-stricken, expressed the collective sorrow of the organization in a heartfelt statement: “We are absolutely devastated by Dejan’s sudden passing. 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.”
A Coaching Legacy of Excellence and Inspiration
Milojević, a native of Belgrade, Serbia, brought a wealth of international coaching experience to the Warriors, having served as head coach for KK Mega Basket in Belgrade for eight seasons (2012-20), leading the team to numerous domestic and regional titles. His coaching acumen and ability to develop young talent earned him widespread respect and admiration throughout the basketball world.
His coaching journey extended beyond Serbia, as he also served as head coach for KK Budućnost in the Adriatic League in Montenegro during the 2021 season. Additionally, Milojević held assistant coaching roles with the Serbian national team and various NBA Summer League teams, including the Atlanta Hawks, San Antonio Spurs, and Houston Rockets.
A Cherished Colleague and Friend Remembered
Those who had the privilege of working alongside Milojević spoke of his infectious enthusiasm, unwavering dedication, and unwavering commitment to the game of basketball. His passion for coaching was evident in every interaction, whether it was with players, fellow coaches, or fans.
Warriors General Manager Bob Myers, still grappling with the sudden loss, shared his memories of Milojević: “Dejan was more than just a coach; he was a true friend and mentor to so many of us in the organization. His impact on the Warriors, both on and off the court, was immeasurable. He will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this incredibly difficult time.”
A Lasting Impact on the Game of Basketball
Milojević’s contributions to the sport of basketball extended far beyond the sidelines. His passion for developing young talent and his commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive environment made him a beacon of inspiration for aspiring coaches and players alike.
His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched throughout his coaching career, and his memory will forever be etched in the hearts of the Golden State Warriors family and the broader basketball community.
Honoring Dejan Milojević’s Legacy
As the Warriors and the NBA community come together to mourn the loss of Dejan Milojević, they will also celebrate his remarkable life and career. His passion for the game, his unwavering dedication to his players, and his infectious positive attitude will continue to inspire generations of basketball players and coaches for years to come.
In a fitting tribute to his memory, the Warriors have announced plans to establish a scholarship fund in Milojević’s name to support aspiring young coaches. The fund will provide financial assistance to promising individuals who are pursuing careers in basketball coaching, helping to ensure that Milojević’s legacy of excellence and mentorship continues to live on.
Dejan Milojević’s untimely passing is a profound loss for the Golden State Warriors, the NBA, and the basketball world as a whole. His legacy as a coach, mentor, and friend will endure, and his passion for the game will continue to inspire generations to come.