Tears flew down and a somber atmosphere settled on the Chase Center. With the initials ‘DM’ plastered on the court, the entire organization remembered their dedicated assistant coach, Dejan Milojevic. The Serbian coach tragically passed away from a heart attack when the team was away in Utah. It took a few days for Stephen Curry and the group to recoup and process the loss.

After the game, Stephen Curry was asked about the magnitude of the moment. “It was tough,” he said while gathering all his thoughts. “Been a very long week for everybody in the organization. Understanding how we wanted to play, honor, tribute, and celebrate what he meant to our family. Having his family here, you know, giving them this reception from our fans. It’s tough looking over at his chair.”

After holding their first practice a few days ago, the franchise was looking for ways to honor their loving member. Milojevic’s impact had touched every Warriors’ heart. The arena was draped in black shirts, remembering Milojevic for his profound presence. A rapturous ovation was given in the presence of his wife, Natasa, and two children, Masa and Nikola.

Milojevic was more than just the typical assistant coach. He held significance in every player’s life. His beaming smile was the way the group chose to remember him. And they successfully fulfilled what they thought would have been his order – to win the basketball game.

After a two-game break, the Warriors play with heavy hearts

After a two-game break in the wake of Milojevic’s passing, the Warriors took the court against a mediocre Atlanta Hawks team. The aura was different. Everyone was emotional, several players wore their sadness on their sleeves. Nothing was the same without Milojevic. However, they had a job to do. The one way they could honor their ‘Brate’, which means brother in Serian, was to play some basketball.

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Despite playing with heavy hearts, the Warriors played some of their best basketball this season. Maybe it was the influence Dejan had on them. Stephen Curry led the way in their 112-134 win, scoring 25 points to go with 8 assists. Klay Thompson added 24 and Kuminga’s exemplary performance off the bench continued.

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They had slayed the Hawks’ wings. Yet, the pain couldn’t just wither away. There were no smiles, instead teary eyes that pictured their assistant coach.

Milojevic’s presence will loom over at the chair for a long time. He was a dear member of the organization, someone who worked closely with the players. His smile, unwavering determination, and larger-than-life personality will always be remembered. Stephen Curry and Co will dedicate this season to the man in the heavens. A win is a step in the right direction, an encouraging way to celebrate his life.

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