The basketball world is in mourning following the tragic death of Latvian player Janis Timma, who passed away at 32. Timma, known for his European basketball career and brief NBA involvement, was found dead in Moscow in what is suspected to be a suicide. His passing has sparked an outpouring of grief and condolences from teams, former teammates, and his ex-wife, Anna Sedokova.
The basketball community is reeling from the sudden and tragic death of Latvian star Janis Timma. The 32-year-old player, who had stints in the NBA and a prominent career in European leagues, was found dead in Moscow. His passing has been reported as an apparent suicide, leaving fans, teammates, and loved ones in shock. Timma's death has prompted an outpouring of grief and condolences from around the world, highlighting his impact on the sport and those who knew him.
Janis Timma's basketball career began in Latvia, where he played for several teams, including Daugavpils Kraslava and VEF Riga. His talent quickly became evident, leading him to success in the Baltic Basketball League and the Latvian League, where he was named MVP. Timma's skills caught international attention, leading to his participation in the 2013 NBA Draft, where he was selected by the Memphis Grizzlies. Although he never played in the NBA, he had a brief stint with the Orlando Magic's Summer League team in 2021. Most of his career was spent in Europe, playing for teams like Zenit St. Petersburg, Baskonia, Olympiacos, and Khimki Moscow. His contributions to these teams were significant, earning him a respected place in European basketball [1] [2].
Janis Timma was found dead in a residential building in central Moscow, with reports suggesting that he died by suicide. The exact circumstances of his death remain unclear, but a phone containing a message to "call Anya," referring to his ex-wife Anna Sedokova, was found nearby. Sedokova, a Russian-Ukrainian singer, expressed her grief on social media, describing the last few years as 'hell' and pleading for privacy for her child. The couple had recently finalized their divorce. Timma's death has raised concerns about mental health, especially among athletes who often face immense pressure [3] [4].
The news of Janis Timma's death has elicited a wave of tributes from the global basketball community. Teams like Olympiacos, Zenit, and Baskonia expressed their condolences, remembering Timma for his talent and kind nature. Fellow Latvian player Kristaps Porzingis shared a heartfelt message, and John Hollinger, a former NBA executive, recalled his time with Timma fondly. Euroleague Basketball announced a moment of silence in his memory before upcoming games. This collective mourning highlights Timma's impact not just as a player, but as a person who left a lasting impression on those around him [5] [6].
Janis Timma's unexpected death has cast a shadow over the basketball world, reminding us of the pressures faced by professional athletes. His career, marked by significant achievements in European leagues, is celebrated by teammates and fans alike. As the community mourns, there is a renewed focus on mental health awareness and the importance of supporting individuals both on and off the court. Timma's legacy will endure, not only through his contributions to basketball but also through the heartfelt memories shared by those who knew him.
"We will always remember him for his kind heart and his smile." - Olympiacos
"You have no idea what hell I have lived through over the last few years." - Anna Sedokova
"Rest in Peace JT." - Kristaps Porzingis