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“Sending Love and Prayers”: Jayson Tatum Unites the NBA World to Commiserate ‘Inside the NBA’ Host Ernie Johnson’s Tragic Loss

Published 01/20/2023, 6:30 AM EST

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 The NBA world was left shaken after the tragic passing of Lois Marjorie Johnson, mother of ‘Inside the NBA’ host Ernie Johnson. Lois Johnson was 94 when she passed away earlier this week. Among various stars mourning the passing of Ernie’s mother, Celtics forward Jayson Tatum did not forget to mention Ernie in the post-game interview. Fans appreciated the Celtics star for his thoughtful outlook.

Ernie has taken a week off to spend time with his loved one as he should. It’s indeed a heavy loss for the Johnsons as Lois was the ‘rock’ of the family. ‘Lois will be laid next to her beloved husband Ernie Johnson Sr. at the Green Lawn Cemetery in Roswell this Monday’ the Johnson family informed. 

Jayson Tatum sends love to Ernie Johnson Jr. for his tragic loss

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The Celtics star put up a match-winning performance of 34 points and 19 rebounds against the Warriors. Fans loved the fact that Tatum took a moment to send some words and love to the Johnson family. 

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Coming off an OT win against the Golden State Warriors, the Boston Celtics star commiserated Ernie. Tatum said, “Condolences go out to Ernie and his family. You hate to hear that. So, love you man. Prayers for you and your family. Wish you well”.

Fans showed love to Jayson Tatum on Twitter for his kind words. Here are some of the fans’ reactions on Twitter:

 

 

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Along with other stars, the ‘NBA on TNT’ family remembered Lois Johnson. The studio hosts Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, and Kenny Smith sent their love and condolences to their friend. Moreover, the post-game show dedicated a small video in remembrance of Ernie’s mom. One of the most entertaining shows, ‘NBA on TNT,’ has, for long been a staple, for the NBA world and fans truly appreciated Tatum’s efforts. 

Back to back tragic losses for the Johnson family

In October 2021, Ernie’s son, Michael Johnson, passed away at the age of 33. Michael was born with a progressive form of muscular dystrophy. It causes respiratory issues and requires the use of a ventilator. Ernie and his wife Cheryl adopted four kids.

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Michael was one among the four kids. People loved Ernie for his kind character. After the passing of his son, Ernie told “We had adopted Michael not with an eye on what he would become, but for who he was. A neglected, forgotten child who deserved another chance”. Ernie was of great support to his son Michael, although he couldn’t make it.

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Written by:

Rohan Dharmalingam

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Edited by:

Jayant Chhabra