NBA star Janis Timma found dead in Moscow

The recent death of Latvian basketball player Jānis Timma, found in Moscow at the age of 32, has elicited a wave of shock and mourning within the sports community. Timma was known for his significant contributions to European basketball, having played for esteemed teams such as Olympiacos and Zenit St. Petersburg . His decision to continue his professional career in Russia amidst the geopolitical tensions arising from the war in Ukraine marked a controversial chapter that ultimately severed his ties with the Latvian national team .

Russian media reported that Timma's body was found near a hotel in central Moscow.

Beside him lay a phone, where a message from his ex-wife, the famous singer Anna Sedokova, requesting a callback was displayed. According to Delfi.lv, authorities are still investigating all the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Timma's breakup with Sedokova was very public, and the Latvian player often shared his emotions on his Instagram profile, posting messages and videos where he spoke about his pain, even mentioning suicidal thoughts. He accused Sedokova of prioritizing money over their love.

The Memphis Grizzlies selected him with the 60th overall pick of the 2013 NBA draft. His rights were later traded to the Orlando Magic, leading to an appearance with the Florida franchise in the 2021 MGM Resorts NBA Summer League and playing for the Lakeland Magic in the 2022 FIBA Intercontinental Cup.

Representing Latvia stretched from multiple junior tournaments, including winning a bronze medal in the 2010 FIBA U18 European Championship, to debuting with the senior national team in 2014.

Timma struck a more forceful tone when responding to critics on Instagram following after he confirmed that he would be competing in a tournament organised by the Russian bookmarker Liga Stavok. 

He wrote: 'How useless you 99% of my dear followers are. Leave my family alone at least. It's my decision, and I don't see anything wrong with it. I play basketball and live my life.'

As reports of Timma's death began to circulate on social media there was disbelief from members of the NBA community, including Boston Celtics and Latvia star Kristaps Porzingis.

While initial reports suggest suicide as a possible cause of death, this remains unconfirmed . The circumstances surrounding his passing are particularly poignant; sources indicate that emotional struggles related to his recent marital separation may have contributed to his tragic fate. Notably, Timma’s phone screensaver reportedly displayed “Call Anna,” referencing his ex-wife Anna Sedokova This underscores the personal challenges he faced despite his professional accolades.

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Sarah H

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