It's not only the NFL world that was shocked by the sudden passing of legendary football coach John Madden. Current and retired NBA players also joined the rest of the world in mourning the loss of a leading sports figure, with the likes of LeBron James, Draymond Green, Magic Johnson and more remembering the icon.
On Tuesday, the NFL was shell-shocked after it was revealed that Madden died unexpectedly. It sparked tons of reactions from fans who grew up watching Madden lead the Oakland Raiders to the playoffs year in and year out, as well as the younger audience who knew him as the face of the popular football video game.
Of course active and former NBA players were the same, several of whom grew up watching the NFL and dreaming to play in the league when they were young.
LeBron James was one of the first NBA players to share his reaction on Twitter, as he vowed to honor the legacy of Madden. Meanwhile, Draymond Green recalled a moment in his youth signifying the impact the former Raiders coach had in the NFL.
Rest in Paradise To the 🐐 John Madden!!!! Your legacy will continue to live on ♾!!!!!
— LeBron James (@KingJames) December 29, 2021
RIP to the legend Coach John Madden! I never heard of ALL-PRO teams during my childhood. It was all about the All Madden team!! One of a kind! Rest up Coach 🕊🕊🕊
— Draymond Green (@Money23Green) December 29, 2021
Magic Johnson, meanwhile, admitted that John Madden was the reason he's a Raiders fan. He also sent his condolences to the family of the NFL great, who were certainly more than surprised with the painful passing of their loved one.
John was a big reason that I was a Raiders fan and is still the coach with the most wins in Raiders history. Cookie and I are praying for the entire Madden family! RIP.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) December 29, 2021
More NBA players and personalities also took to Twitter to share their thoughts and prayers for the Madden family, all while remembering the greatness of Coach Madden.
Here are some of the reactions on Twitter:




RIP to the legend John Madden🥺
— Mikal Bridges (@mikal_bridges) December 29, 2021
Grew up on Madden owned every game and still play to this day!!!! #RIPMadden https://t.co/SvexygOiLD
— Jason "The Jet" Terry (@jasonterry31) December 29, 2021
A Bay Area legend. Thank you for all you did for the bay and for coaching. You will be missed! https://t.co/FEF2vuwPlA
— Jason Kidd (@RealJasonKidd) December 29, 2021
RIP John Madden
— C.J. Watson (@Quietstorm_32) December 29, 2021
One of a kind. May he rest in peace.
85 years and still too soon.
Blessings. Madden. https://t.co/84oyoQ2UZt— Charlie Villanueva (@CVBelieve) December 29, 2021
RIP the great John Madden https://t.co/9Fv2qdZSQW
— Quincy Pondexter (@QuincyPondexter) December 29, 2021
RIP to the legend John Madden ..
— 🏁 Jamal Crawford (@JCrossover) December 29, 2021