Former NBA player Stan Love has died at the age of 76, his son, Miami Heat forward Kevin Love, announced on Sunday night. In a post on Instagram, Kevin Love shared that his father's health had been declining over the past six months and had worsened in recent weeks. "Dad, you fought for a long time. The most painful to witness being these last few weeks," he wrote. Love also described his father as his first hero and greatest teacher, reflecting on their relationship, as reported by Miami Herald.
A 6-foot-9 forward, Stan Love shone at Morningside High School in California, later at Oregon, and was drafted ninth overall by Baltimore in the 1971 NBA draft. Throughout his four-season career, he averaged 6.8 points and 4.0 rebounds, according to CBS News Miami. Beyond his sports legacy, Stan was also known as the brother of Beach Boys singer Mike Love. Personal matters have kept Kevin Love away from the court recently, which includes the last 10 games of the regular season and most recently, Game 4 against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite his absence, his team has been supportive. "We could use his voice. But K-Love is going through a lot right now," said Heat captain Bam Adebayo, as per Miami Herald.
At 36, Kevin Love has taken on a greater leadership role with the Miami Heat as his playing time has adjusted. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra emphasized Love’s impact, saying, "We all know how much he means to us in our locker room, but this transcends that," as mentioned by Miami Herald. Love is also dealing with the recent passing of his father, Stan Love, and the team and broader basketball community have shown support during this time.
