Boston Celtics star Kristaps Porziņģis is mourning the loss of his fellow Latvian basketball player, Jānis Timma, who tragically passed away in Moscow at the age of 32. Timma’s body was discovered at the entrance of a high-rise residential complex in central Moscow on December 17, 2024. Preliminary reports suggest the cause of death is suicide, though official confirmation is pending.
In the days leading up to his death, Timma shared a poignant video on Instagram, featuring himself playing basketball in the rain, accompanied by Shaggy’s “Boombastic.” This post has since been interpreted as a reflection of his inner turmoil. Timma’s passing coincided with the birthday of his ex-wife, Ukrainian actress and TV personality Anna Sedokova, with whom he shared a child. Sedokova has requested privacy during this difficult time.
Timma had recently moved to Russia to participate in a 3×3 basketball league, a decision that drew criticism due to the ongoing geopolitical tensions stemming from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Throughout his career, Timma played in various European leagues and was drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies in 2013.
Porziņģis, who has previously spoken about personal tragedies shaping his life, expressed profound grief over Timma’s death. He emphasized the importance of mental health and human connection, urging individuals to seek support during challenging times.
This loss adds to the personal tragedies that have impacted Porziņģis’s life and career. In a 2017 interview, it was revealed that before his birth, his family endured the loss of an older brother, Toms, who passed away at 14 months old. Porziņģis’s mother, Ingrida, described the experience as feeling “like a bulldozer had run over my life,” and noted that after Kristaps was born, “it was like he had to live for two lives.”
The basketball community has united in mourning Timma’s passing, with fans and players alike sharing messages of condolence and support. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the pressures faced by professional athletes and the critical importance of mental health awareness.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please reach out to a mental health professional or contact local support services.
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