NBA star announces heartbreaking personal news

NBA and New York Knicks star center Karl Anthony-Towns had to miss the team’s game against the Golden State Warriors earlier this week. At the time, it was cited as personal reasons for Towns to miss the game.

It was revealed that Towns missed the game to attend the funeral of longtime family friend Sarah Holtzman. Holtzman had battled breast cancer. An emotional Towns returned to the team for their game against the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday.

“This is one of those moments where I had to be there for my family and be there for the kids that lost somebody really special to them,” Towns said.

Towns and his girlfriend, Jordyn Woods, were close with Holtzman. Woods tweeted shortly after Holtzman’s passing ‘(expletive) cancer.’

Towns has dealt with personal tragedy over his career, including the loss of his mother, Jacqueline Cruz, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I want to say that all the losses I’ve had have taught me how to appreciate life and find joy in the work,” Towns said. “Not many people have a chance to have this job and be able to play basketball for a living.

Towns returned to the team on Thursday with a heavy heart. He put up 12 points and 14 rebounds in 42 minutes.