Former NBA player Kenneth Faried played the day after his mother passed away, playing a key role in Reggio Emilia’s victory over Milan in the Italian league and earning high praise from both team coaches.
Former NBA player Kenneth Faried went through a lot over the last couple of days after his mother passed away the night before the game between his team, UNAHOTELS Reggio Emilia, and EA7 Emporio Armani Milan on Sunday.
Despite the heartbreaking loss, Faried still played in the game and helped Reggiana defeat the favorites, Milan, 87-78. He was one of the key contributors, scoring 11 points and grabbing 9 rebounds, bursting into tears after the game.
"A strange day, a strange game. As you know, something has happened to all of us. We offer our condolences to Kenneth [Faried], who lost his mother the night before the game. It was obviously a special day for everyone because he is part of our family," Reggiana's coach Dimitris Priftis said after the game, via Pianeta Basket.
Opposing team coach Ettore Messina also praised Faried for his determination and attitude after everything he had gone through.
"It's wonderful to see an NBA veteran come to Italy and play with this attitude, full of grit and energy. I found out afterward what had happened. Many times, when you see veterans, you wonder if they still have the desire to play," Messina said, praising Faried.
This season in Italy, Faried is averaging 9.2 points and 8 rebounds per game in the Basketball Champions League for Reggiana, still showing glimpses of his former self and remaining a key player for his team.
Like what we are doing? Support us by becoming BN+ member.
