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Latvian Basketball Star Janis Timma Found Dead in Moscow

Latvian Basketball Star Janis Timma Found Dead in Moscow
Published 1 months ago on Dec 17, 2024

Latvian basketball star Janis Timma, 32, was tragically found dead in Moscow on Monday. The athlete, who had faced criticism for continuing to play professionally in Russia despite the ongoing war in Ukraine, was discovered in the stairway of an apartment building.  

Initial investigations suggest that Timma died by suicide.

Timma's decision to continue his basketball career in Russia had drawn significant backlash. In October, he publicly defended his choice to play in a tournament organized by Liga Stavok, a Russian bookmaker, despite the ongoing conflict.  

"How useless you 99 per cent of my dear followers are," Timma wrote on Instagram. "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."

A Tragic End Amidst Controversy

Timma's death occurred on the birthday of his ex-wife, Anna Sedokova, a Ukrainian actress and singer. The couple, who married in 2020, had separated earlier this year.  

 

Following the news of Timma's passing, Sedokova shared an emotional message on Instagram, pleading with her followers to shield their children from the tragic news.

"I beg you very much," she wrote. "I've wondered my whole life how people who have something like this happen to them can still post stories and now, I'm asking you very strongly - I have a child, he's small, he doesn't need to know any of this. I just have to save my child from this information. If you can, please keep it to yourself."

A Promising Career Cut Short

Born in Krāslava, Latvia, on July 2, 1992, Janis Timma began his professional basketball career in his home country, playing for several clubs in the Latvian Basketball League (LBL). He quickly rose to prominence, showcasing his talent in top European leagues, including stints with VEF Rīga, Zenit Saint Petersburg in Russia, and Baskonia in Spain.  

 

Drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2013 NBA Draft, Timma explored opportunities in the United States, participating in the NBA Summer League and playing for the Lakeland Magic in the NBA G League, an Orlando Magic affiliate.  

A Life Interrupted

Timma's untimely death has sent shockwaves through the basketball world and beyond. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by athletes navigating global events and personal struggles.

Keywords: Janis Timma, basketball, Latvia, Russia, Ukraine, suicide, controversy, NBA, Zenit Saint Petersburg, Anna Sedokova, death, tragedy, sports, war, conflict, social media, backlash.  

 

 

 

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