In a somber ceremony on a rainy day in Belgrade, Serbia, hundreds of mourners gathered to bid farewell to Golden State Warriors assistant coach Dejan Milojevic. The beloved mentor, who tragically suffered a heart attack last month, was laid to rest in his native country. Notable figures from the basketball community, including Warriors coach Steve Kerr and general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr., paid their respects at the funeral.
The weight of the loss was palpable as Milojevic's former Serbian teammates carried his flower-draped casket. His untimely passing occurred on January 17 in Salt Lake City, where he had been hospitalized following a medical emergency during a private team dinner. At just 46 years old, Milojevic's sudden departure shocked and saddened those who knew him.
Milojevic's impact on the basketball world and his homeland of Serbia was profound. Before joining the coaching ranks, he enjoyed a successful playing career as a star player with Partizan Belgrade and various clubs in Serbia, Montenegro, Turkey, and Spain. As news of his passing spread, an outpouring of sympathy flooded in from fans and the basketball community worldwide.
Predrag Danilovic, president of the Serbian Basketball Federation, paid tribute to Milojevic's character and legacy, saying, 'There was no person who did not respect and love Milojevic. A great basketball player, great coach left us, and above all, a great man, a man without a single stain.' Danilovic emphasized the privilege of calling Milojevic a friend and expressed heartfelt condolences.
Marko Keselj, representing Serbia's Ministry of Sports and a former basketball player, remarked on the profound impact Milojevic had on those around him, both on and off the court. 'With his positive energy, he brought out the best in us. He motivated us to be better in every way, as people and as players. Deki was a friend, mentor, he was a leader.'
Milojevic's coaching career included stints in Serbia, Montenegro, and assistant coaching roles for the Serbian national team. Additionally, Milojevic worked closely with notable players such as Nikola Jokic, Ivica Zubac, Goga Bitadze, and Boban Marjanovic during his time coaching in Europe. He was particularly instrumental in guiding Jokic, who went on to become a two-time NBA MVP with the Denver Nuggets.
Milojevic's contributions to the sport earned him tremendous respect and admiration. He won three consecutive MVP awards in the Adriatic League from 2004 to 2006, showcasing his prowess as a power forward. Jokic himself was named MVP of the same league in 2015, a testament to Milojevic's mentorship and influence.
Prior to joining the Golden State Warriors, Milojevic gained valuable NBA experience through assistant coaching roles during the Summer League with the Atlanta Hawks, San Antonio Spurs, and Houston Rockets. His expertise and guidance were valued by players and organizations alike, further solidifying his impact on the basketball community.
Dejan Milojevic leaves behind his wife, Natasa, and their children, Nikola and Masa. As Serbia mourns the loss of one of its basketball legends, Milojevic's legacy as a remarkable player, esteemed coach, and cherished individual will forever be remembered. The basketball world has truly lost a great man, and his absence will be keenly felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace.
