Kristaps Porzingis #8 of the Boston Celtics
The basketball world was rocked by devastating news on December 17, 2024, as it was confirmed that Jānis Timma, a former NBA Draft pick and long-time international professional, had tragically passed away at the age of 32. The cause of death is reported as an apparent suicide, and his body was found in the entrance of a high-rise building in Moscow, Russia, where Timma had been living. Authorities have stated that they believe the death was not criminal in nature, though the pain of the loss remains deeply felt by all who knew him.
Timma, who was selected as the 60th overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies, never made it to the NBA but had an extensive and successful career overseas. His death has sent shockwaves through the basketball community, and tributes have poured in from around the world.
A Brief NBA Connection and Overseas Success
Though Timma’s time in the NBA was brief—he played in the NBA Summer League in 2021 with the Orlando Magic—the Latvian forward made a lasting impact internationally. Timma spent the majority of his professional career playing in Europe, most recently for Monbus Obradoiro in Spain’s Liga ACB, where he averaged 8.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.7 steals per game in the 2023 season. His time in Spain was part of a broader journey that took him across multiple countries in Europe, including stints in Russia, Greece, and Turkey, where he built a reputation as a versatile and skilled forward with a tenacious work ethic.
Despite never playing a regular season game in the NBA, Timma’s time as a professional basketball player spanned an impressive 16 seasons, a testament to his resilience and dedication to the game.
A Friend Lost: Kristaps Porzingis Pays Tribute
Among the first to respond to the news was Boston Celtics star Kristaps Porzingis, who posted a tribute to his fellow Latvian on Instagram. “Rest in peace JT,” Porzingis wrote, reflecting the deep bond the two shared as teammates on the Latvia men’s national basketball team. The duo represented Latvia in several international competitions, including the 2017 FIBA EuroBasket tournament, where they helped elevate Latvia’s status in European basketball.
Porzingis, who is currently in his second season with the Celtics and is having an impressive campaign, has been one of the most prominent Latvian players in the NBA in recent years. His personal loss underscores the tight-knit nature of the Latvian basketball community, where players often share close friendships that extend beyond the court.
Timma’s Legacy: A Journey Through European Basketball
While Jānis Timma may not have achieved NBA fame, his influence on the international basketball scene was undeniable. As a player, he was known for his versatility, high basketball IQ, and ability to contribute in a variety of ways. His ability to score, rebound, and facilitate helped him remain a valuable asset for several European clubs.
In his final season in Spain with Monbus Obradoiro, Timma demonstrated his well-rounded game, shooting 38.8% from the field and contributing significantly on both ends of the floor. His ability to play as a forward capable of both stretching the floor and defending multiple positions earned him respect throughout the league. It was clear that Timma had a deep love for the game, which he carried with him across Europe for over a decade.
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Remembering Timma
Timma’s untimely passing has left a hole in the hearts of those who knew him, both as a player and as a person. His dedication to the sport and the friendships he forged along the way are part of his enduring legacy. While the basketball world mourns his loss, it is clear that Timma’s contributions to the game and the international basketball community will not be forgotten.
As tributes continue to pour in, one thing is certain: Jānis Timma’s impact extended far beyond his on-court accomplishments. He was a beloved teammate, a proud representative of Latvia, and a player who gave everything to the game he loved. He will be deeply missed by those who knew him and by the fans who admired his journey.
Rest in peace, JT.
