Latvia and the basketball world mourn the loss of Janis TimmaLatvian international furtively passed through the NBA and especially the EuroLeague. His body was found at the entrance to a residential building in central Moscow, according to Russian media. As authorities continue their investigations, initial reports suggest a tragic outcome linked to personal issues.
A notable career in European basketball
Born on July 2, 1992, Janis Timma (2.01 m) rose through the ranks of European basketball to establish himself as a solid player. This winger was renowned for his external skill and his combativeness on the pitch.
The Kraslava native played five seasons in the EuroLeague, passing through prestigious clubs like Baskonia, Olympiakos, BC Khimki Region and UNICS Kazan. In the national team, he was a pillar of Latvia, participating in several memorable campaigns, notably at EuroBasket 2017. However, he was cut by Luca Banchi just before the 2023 World Cup. Last season, he wore the colors of Darussafaka Istanbul in Turkey before joining the Spanish team Obradoiro.
A complicated marriage with star Anna Sedokova
If her sports career was marked by success, Janis Timma's personal life seemed more tormented. His recent separation from Ukrainian actress and singer Anna Sedokova, made official on December 9, would have visibly weighed heavily on his mental state. Highly publicized, their tumultuous relationship was punctuated by breakups and reconciliations, according to media reports.
Timma had publicly shared disturbing messages on social media, discussing suicidal thoughts and feelings of pain. He also accused his ex-wife of prioritizing money over their relationship. In recent weeks, he left the United States for Moscow, where he played for a 3×3 team.
Kristaps Porzingis and other Latvian basketball stars in shock
The announcement of his death caused shock waves among his former teammates and adversaries. Kristaps Porzingis (2.18 m, 29 years old), Boston Celtics star and former national team teammate, expressed his dismay on social networks:
“No, please tell me that’s not true. Let's take care of each other, human connection is essential for our mental health. Rest in peace, JT. »
Other figures in European basketball and several clubs also paid tribute to the memory of a talented player and a valued teammate.
