Los Angeles Lakers (Photo : Reuters)
Los Angeles Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak's 15-year-old daughter, Alina Kupchak died Monday morning after battling with a prolonged unspecified illness.
"Alina Claire Kupchak, daughter of Lakers general manager Mitch and his wife Claire, passed away this morning at the age of 15 after a lengthy illness," the team said in a statement released on behalf of Kupchak and his wife Claire. "The family asks for and appreciates their privacy at this difficult time, and would like to express their gratitude for everyone's love, support, thoughts and prayers."
The couple also has an 18-year-old boy named Maxwell.
Kupchak, who is in his 28th season as Lakers' manager, took over the role from Jerry West in 2000. He joined the team's front office in 1986 after a 10-year career in NBA.
Hurt by the proceedings, Lakers coach, Byron Scott, just before the game against Trail Blazers, said that the entire team will support Kupchak and his family during the trying time.
"It just kind of puts basketball in a different light. It's not that important," said Scott, as per ESPN. "We sat down as coaches this morning and there wasn't a whole lot of words to be said because as a parent, all of us have kids."
Condolence messages has been pouring in as the family tries to come to terms with their loss.
"My condolences go out to a super friend and teammate, Mitch Kupchak and his wife Claire on the passing of their 15 year old daughter Alina," tweeted retired basketball player Earvin "Magic" Johnson.
This season has been especially tough for the team as they also had to deal with the murder of Wayne Ellington's father Philadelphia in November 2014.
