The Golden State Warriors marked an emotional return to the Chase Center for their first home game since the passing of their former assistant coach, Dejan Milojeviċ. In a heartfelt tribute before their matchup against the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday, head coach Steve Kerr addressed the crowd, expressing the team’s profound sorrow over Milojeviċ’s recent demise.
The Warriors’ official Twitter account shared moments from the tribute, encapsulating the deep connection between the team and their late coach. Kerr’s words resonated as he emphasized Milojeviċ’s enduring presence within the team’s collective spirit.
Forever our brother, Deki 💙 pic.twitter.com/Z7pU0hGeFz
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) January 25, 2024
"(Deki) is a part of our soul." pic.twitter.com/u3Og4TwoV5
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) January 25, 2024
Milojeviċ, who tragically succumbed to a heart attack at the age of 46 last week, had an illustrious 15-year playing career in Europe.
Notably, he played a pivotal role in leading then-Yugoslavia to victory in the 2001 men’s EuroBasket championship. Milojeviċ later joined the Golden State coaching staff ahead of the 2021-22 campaign, contributing his expertise and passion to the team.
The impact of Milojeviċ’s passing was profound, leading to the postponement of the Warriors’ games against the Utah Jazz and Dallas Mavericks. In a gesture of lasting tribute, the team announced the incorporation of a “DM” logo on the Chase Center court and a patch on their uniforms for the remainder of the season.
The Warriors will wear a ‘DM’ patch on their uniforms for the remainder of the season in honor of assistant coach Dejan Milojević. pic.twitter.com/7NKcq0CUhX
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) January 24, 2024
Wednesday’s game marked the beginning of a series of four consecutive home games for the Golden State Warriors, providing an ongoing opportunity for the team and their fans to remember and honor the legacy of Dejan Milojeviċ.
