The Golden State Warriors, led by head coach Steve Kerr, paid a heartfelt tribute to their late assistant coach, Dejan Milojevic, in the team’s first game since his tragic passing.
Milojevic, a key figure in the Warriors’ coaching staff, passed away suddenly last week following a heart attack during a team dinner in Salt Lake City.
Milojevic’s wife and children were present for ceremony
Returning to the court against the Atlanta Hawks, both teams donned black shirts with the word “Brate,”Serbian for brother, honoring Milojevic’s memory.
The shirts also featured a “DM” badge, symbolizing the enduring impact Milojevic will have on the team throughout the season.
With Milojevic’s wife and children in attendance, the Warriors presented a touching video highlighting his contributions, featuring testimonials from Steve Kerr, Kevon Looney, and Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic.
A visibly moved crowd applauded Kerr’s emotional tribute, recognizing Milojevic as not just a coach but a beloved friend and family man.
“Rather than a moment of silence, I’d like for all of us to give Deki an ovation that he can hear up in heaven,” Kerr said.
The world lost a beautiful soul last week. Deki was a wonderful friend, a hell of a basketball coach, a great man and most importantly a beautiful grandson, son, husband and father,’ Kerr continued.
‘… The smile, the joy, the laughter – it was ever present. And what he meant to us was a huge part of who we are – he’s a part of our soul,” the head coach remarked.
During the ceremony, Milojevic’s seat on the bench remained empty, adorned with a “Brate” shirt and a white rose.
Kerr urged fans to celebrate Milojevic’s life with an ovation, emphasizing the joy and positivity he brought to the team.
Warriors’ emotional tribute to Milojevic
The court at Chase Center featured the initials “DM” inside a heart, and players will wear “DM” patches for the remainder of the NBA season.
A photo of Milojevic with the message “FOREVER OUR BROTHER” was displayed on the jumbotron, creating a lasting tribute to the coach’s infectious smile and spirit.
The heartfelt gestures extended beyond the Warriors’ home court, as fellow NBA players, including Boban Marjanovic, Luka Doncic, and the San Antonio Spurs, joined in honoring Milojevic with “BRATE” shirts and pregame acknowledgments.
Dejan Milojevic, aged 46, was a crucial part of the coaching staff that contributed to the Warriors’ 2022 NBA championship triumph.
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