On Wednesday, the Golden State Warriors, NBA, and European basketball community was struck by tragedy with the passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic at the age of 46.
Milojevic, who joined the Warriors in 2021, experienced a heart attack during a team dinner in Salt Lake City on Tuesday night. This unforeseen event led to the postponement of the Warriors’ game against the Jazz.
His influence on the team, particularly on the rookies, was profound. Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski, chosen 19th overall from Santa Clara in the recent draft, expressed deep gratitude for Milojevic’s guidance.
“You changed my life in such a short time. The most important thing you ever told me was to just smile!” Podziemski said. “Your joy and laughs will forever be missed. Shine down on us from heaven. Rest In Peace Dejan Milojevic.”
Podziemski, who has found a significant role in the team’s rotation this season, including multiple starts, credited Milojevic for his impact at the start of his NBA career.
Milojevic, a celebrated figure in Serbian basketball, had a successful career as a player, earning MVP honors in Europe. He later transitioned into coaching, mentoring several top Serbian players, including Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic.
The Warriors organization expressed their profound shock and sorrow over his 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,” the statement said.
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