Miami Heat veteran Kevin Love is grieving the loss of his father, Stan Love, a former NBA forward and proud supporter throughout Kevin’s career. Stan passed away following a long illness, the family announced Sunday.
In an emotional Instagram post, Kevin Love reflected on the bond he shared with his father and the difficult final months.
“Dad, you fought for a long time,” Love wrote. “The hardest stretch being these past 6 months. The most painful to witness being these last few weeks. And even at the end as you continued to deteriorate — I still saw you as a Giant. My Protector. My first Hero.”
Love shared that Stan’s final wish was to be at home, surrounded by family. “That breath came. And now it’s time to rest,” he wrote.
The tribute sparked a wave of condolences and support from the NBA community.
The Heat responded with a heart emoji.
Former teammate Meyers Leonard called the post “so emotional, so real,” and praised Love’s courage.
Four-time All-Star DeMarcus Cousins and NBA legend Steve Nash were among many players to offer condolences.
Stan Love, 75, carved out his own path in basketball long before his son reached NBA stardom. Selected No. 9 overall by the Baltimore Bullets in 1971, the 6-foot-9 forward later played for the Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs during the ABA era, averaging 6.8 points and 4.0 rebounds over his career.
He was also part of a famous family outside of basketball, as the brother of Beach Boys lead singer Mike Love.
Kevin Love, 36, has long been one of the NBA’s most vocal advocates for mental health awareness, opening up about his struggles with anxiety and depression. His heartfelt tribute offers a glimpse into the personal loss he’s now facing — one that cuts deeper than any game.
The NBA world is rallying behind him.
Love has not been with the Heat during their first-round series vs. the Cavaliers. Miami trails, 3-0.
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