Memphis Grizzlies coach says ‘senseless’ death of top fan has ‘really hit us hard’

The world of NBA players responded on Friday to the publication of footage demonstrating the traffic stop on January 7th, which came just before Tyre Nichols passed away from his injuries after three days in the hospital.

The 29-year-old is shown in the films being punched and kicked by police, who also allegedly deploy pepper spray on him, leaving him stunned and bleeding.

A tribute to Tyre Nichols before the Grizzlies vs Timberwolves game

An image of a memorial to Tyre Nichols taken just before the Memphis Grizzlies and Minnesota Timberwolves game on January 27, 2023, at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, began. On January 7, 2023, Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, was severely beaten by five Memphis Police Department officers during a traffic check. He passed away three days later.

Five Memphis police officers were fired as a result of the violent incident; they are currently being charged with second-degree murder.

The loss of Nichols struck close to home for the Memphis Grizzlies as they were ready to play the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday night in Minneapolis.

Before the game and before the footage was made public, head coach Taylor Jenkins of the Grizzlies shared his thoughts while his team warmed up.

“The senseless loss of life for Tyre Nichols has really hit us hard,” Jenkins stated. “And being away from home while traveling has been difficult. And I wish I could embrace the family right now through this webcam. They’re dealing with a lot.”

Jenkins claimed to have sobbed after seeing a television interview in which Nichols’ mother discussed the death of her son earlier in the day.

Taylor Jenkins coaches against the Pacers

On January 14, 2023, in Indianapolis, Indiana, head coach Taylor Jenkins of the Memphis Grizzlies watches during the fourth quarter of their game against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.(Getty Images/Dylan Buell))

Sadly, we’re back here. You really cannot comprehend the loss of life caused by police brutality,” Jenkins went on. “As this team’s head coach, I’m attempting to make sure everyone understands the obligations we have going forward that go beyond basketball. This serves as a sobering reminder of our current state of unity inside the city. Our city has a wonderful spirit. Our city is deeply in love with one another.”

“It’s clear that our city is having a difficult time managing, coping, and recovering from this. However, we’ll overcome it. I have faith that the family who is watching that interview today will succeed. However, we will approach today with sorrow in our hearts while also honoring a lovely life that was taken too soon. And ideally, we will be able to honor and remember Tyre Nichols with pride. with pride representing our city.”

Taylor Jenkins coaches against the Warriors

On January 25, 2023, in San Francisco, California, head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies Taylor Jenkins watches during the team’s game versus the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center.

Before the game began, there was a moment of silence, and the NBA issued a statement.

“It is horrific to see the pictures of Tyre Nichols’ life being taken far too soon. The NBA said, “The NBA family remains committed to working in partnership with advocates, policymakers, and law enforcement to work toward solutions to the issues we face, even though there have been steps toward accountability in this instance.” “Our sympathies are with Mr. Nichols’ family and friends, the Memphis community, and everyone impacted by these heartbreaking photos and loss.

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