By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The death of Dejan Milojevic saddened the basketball world, including the Serbian play-caller of the Toronto Raptors Darko Rajakovic.
“A very complicated day,” noted the 44-year-old tactician after guiding his side to a comfortable win over the Miami Heat in Scotiabank Arena on Wednesday.
“I told my guys I loved them,” he became emotional answering a question about the death of the assistant coach of the Golden State Warriors.
In the first possession, Rajakovic ran a play from his fellow Serbian who died before the game after suffering a heart attack.
Emotional pre-game message from Darko Rajakovic to his beloved Dejan Milojevic
After the game, he dedicated the victory to him 🕊️
— Eurohoops (@Eurohoopsnet) January 18, 2024
“I learned that play from him. That is what he brought to the NBA. That is what he brought to Golden State,” said the head coach of the Raptors, “I stole that play from him. That was our opening play tonight and we were able to score.”
“I dedicated this team win to our team and Deki,” added Rajakovic.
A trade sending Pascal Siakam to the Indiana Pacers also impacted the Raptors in the preparations for the meeting with the Heat. “I love him as a brother,” commented Scottie Barnes, “It hurts but you have got to keep moving on, keep fighting.”
Siakam, 29, was the last remaining starter from the championship team of the 2018-19 season. His stint generated 563 appearances, including 53 in the Playoffs.
Improving to 16-25 in the 2023-24 Regular Season, the Canadian franchise wraps up a three-game homestand with a clash opposite the Chicago Bulls on Thursday.
Photo Credit: Getty Images