Los Angeles Clippers star Paul George and the sports community lost a member on Sunday with the death of Virgil Abloh. Abloh, who was the director of Louis Vuitton menswear and the founder of Off-White, an Italian luxury fashion label, passed away after a two-year battle with cardiac angiosarcoma, a rare form of cancer. The designer had also been working with Nike since 2016 until his passing this year at just 41 years of age.
Following their loss to the Golden State Warriors, George spoke at length about Virgil Abloh and the role he played for minorities in his generation.
“He was a pioneer for our generation, you know, a young generation,” Paul George said. “I think he just created a wave of young Black, young African Americans, and people just, young guys of color, young women of color, to kind of bridge the gap. Especially with something as big as Nike and the fashion world. Nike is primarily an athletic line but I think he made it where they can tap over into the fashion and he was just one of a kind. Definitely opened up the doors for a lot of up-and-coming designers and, you know, he deserves his flowers.
“It’s unfortunate and sad for his loss.”
“A pioneer for our generation. I think he just created a wave of young Black, young African Americans, & young guys of color, young women of color, to kind of bridge the gap. Especially with something as big as Nike and the fashion world.”
Paul George on Virgil Abloh pic.twitter.com/DsHbGyP64K
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) November 29, 2021
In a statement via Abloh's official Instagram account early Sunday, his family announced the news.
“We are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Virgil Abloh, a fiercely devoted father, husband, son, brother, and friend,” the statement on Instagram read. “He is survived by his loving wife Shannon Abloh, his children Lowe Abloh and Grey Abloh, his sister Edwina Abloh, his parents Nee and Eunice Abloh, and numerous dear friends and colleagues.
“For over two years, Virgil valiantly battled a rare, aggressive form of cancer, cardiac angiosarcoma. He chose to endure his battle privately since his diagnosis in 2019, undergoing numerous challenging treatments, all while helming several significant institutions that span fashion, art, and culture.
“Through it all, his work ethic, infinite curiosity, and optimism never wavered. Virgil was driven by his dedication to his craft and to his mission to open doors for others and create pathways for greater equality in art and design. He often said, “Everything I do is for the 17-year-old version of myself,” believing deeply in the power of art to inspire future generations.
“We thank you all for your love and support, and we ask for privacy as we grieve and celebrate Virgil’s life.”
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Virgil Abloh is survived by his wife Shannon, his children — Lowe and Grey — his sister Edwina, and his parents.
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