The Portland Trail Blazers managed to get a win over the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday night thanks to some late-game heroics from shooting guard CJ McCollum. While he's happy the team got the dub, his personal life has been rocked by the passing of his Aunt Renaa.
Immediately after the game, McCollum talked about the Blazers' performance and his contribution to the team's comeback. At the end of the interview, he requested prayers to be sent to his aunt:
After putting up 32 points, CJ gets the postgame interview
Also, prayers for @CJMcCollum's aunt. #RipCity pic.twitter.com/oWoJ5qSmRW
â NBC Sports Northwest (@NBCSNorthwest) November 17, 2019
Sadly, a couple of hours later, McCollum posted a tweet revealing his aunt had passed while thanking those who prayed for her:
Thank you for the prayers. Rest in Paradise Auntie Renaađđ˝ I know youâre in a better place but weâre going to miss you !
â CJ McCollum (@CJMcCollum) November 17, 2019
McCollum had a game that was a fitting tribute to his beloved relative. He finished with a game-high 32 points, six rebounds, and seven assists. He's the main reason the Blazers managed to keep it close against a competitive San Antonio Spurs team that saw LaMarcus Aldrige finish with 30 points and 13 boards.
McCollum loves his family, and he has considered Portland as an extended family of his own. It's this loyalty to the city that has endeared him to Blazers fans all over the country:
âEverybody has the right to make the decision that they feel is best for themselves, Thatâs the way the league has gone,â McCollum told USA TODAY Sports. âBut Iâm indifferent. I really just work on myself and work on how I can get better for our team.â
Blazers Nation is surely grieving with CJ McCollum for his loss. The entire NBA community sends their sincerest condolences to him and his family.
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