Raptors’ Rajakovic Honors Late Warriors Assistant Milojevic

During a recent matchup between the Toronto Raptors and the Golden State Warriors, both teams honored the memory of Dejan Milojevic, a beloved assistant coach with the Warriors who passed away in January 2024. Aged 46, Milojevic suffered a fatal heart attack during a team dinner in Salt Lake City. His connections with coaches on both teams created a profound sense of loss across the basketball community.

Celebrating Dejan Milojevic’s Legacy

Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic shared his sorrow over the sudden loss of Milojevic. “He’s been really missed,” he expressed, recognizing the deep impact Milojevic had on Serbian basketball and beyond. Rajakovic emphasized the tradition they uphold whenever facing the Warriors. After each game, he brings Serbian brandy, known as rakija, for both coaching staffs to share in honor of Milojevic.

A Meaningful Gesture

Rajakovic wore a black shirt adorned with the word “brate” and the initials DM, paying tribute to his friend. The term “brate” translates to “brother” and signifies the camaraderie shared among Serbian peers. At the time of Milojevic’s death, Rajakovic referred to him as a role model in various aspects of life, from coaching to personal relationships.

• Dejan Milojevic: Warriors Assistant Coach, passed away in January 2024.
• Age at Death: 46.
• Cause: Heart attack during a team dinner.
• Tradition: Post-game toast with rakija in honor of Milojevic.
• Rajakovic’s Tribute: Wore a shirt with “brate” and DM initials.

Continuing His Legacy

Jama Mahlalela, an assistant coach for the Raptors, joined the Warriors organization simultaneously with Milojevic. Ivo Simovic, another Raptors assistant, shares a coaching history with Milojevic in Serbia’s national program. Golden State’s head coach Steve Kerr acknowledged the strong ties formed through shared experiences in the NBA, referring to Milojevic affectionately as “Deki.”

Kerr revealed that both teams continue to honor Milojevic by sharing shots of rakija after games as a tribute to him. Nikola Milojevic, his son, serves as a video coach with the Warriors but was unable to attend the Toronto game. Rajakovic expressed gratitude towards Golden State for their support, highlighting Steve Kerr’s generosity in providing opportunities within the organization for Milojevic’s family.

This tradition not only honors the memory of Dejan Milojevic but also reinforces the bonds that exist among coaches in the NBA, reflecting a close-knit community dedicated to preserving the legacy of their fallen peers.