The basketball world is mourning the loss of Janis Timma, the Latvian basketball star, whose body was discovered on Tuesday morning at the entrance of a residential building in central Moscow. Emergency services confirmed the death to the Russian news agency TASS, with the preliminary cause ruled as suicide. Timma, known for his achievements in European basketball and his tenure with the Latvian national team, was just 32 years old.
1. Tragic Circumstances Surrounding Timma’s Death
According to initial reports, Timma’s body was found near a hotel entrance, with his phone lying beside him. A message requesting a callback from his ex-wife, Anna Sedokova—a well-known Ukrainian singer and actress—was reportedly displayed on the phone.
The couple’s relationship had been highly publicized and tumultuous. Married since 2020, Sedokova and Timma officially finalized their divorce on December 9, 2024, marking the end of Sedokova’s third marriage. Reports indicate the two had been living in separate cities for some time, with Sedokova describing their relationship as “complicated” and admitting they had “broken up 20 times” before officially parting ways.
In recent months, Timma had openly shared his struggles with mental health on his Instagram profile, often expressing his emotional pain and mentioning suicidal thoughts.
2. Reactions from the Basketball Community
The news of Timma’s death has sent shockwaves through the basketball community, with tributes pouring in from former teammates and fans alike.
Kristaps Porzingis’ Emotional Tribute
Boston Celtics star and Timma’s former teammate in the Latvian national team, Kristaps Porzingis, reacted with disbelief:
“Oh nooo, please tell me it’s not true. Human connection is the cornerstone of our mental health. Please, let’s look after one another. Rest in peace, JT.”
Porzingis also shared a heartfelt farewell on Instagram Stories, mourning the loss of his friend and teammate.
Euroleague Basketball Honors Timma
In honor of Timma’s passing, Euroleague Basketball announced a moment of silence before all games in Round 16 of the EuroLeague Regular Season.
Several European clubs and organizations joined in mourning, highlighting Timma’s impact on the sport and his long-standing contributions to basketball.
3. Janis Timma’s Basketball Career
Timma’s career spanned over a decade, making him one of Latvia’s most recognizable basketball talents.
Early Beginnings
Timma began his professional basketball journey in 2008, rising through the ASK Riga youth system and making his senior team debut.
NBA Draft and Overseas Stints
- Timma was selected 60th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2013 NBA Draft.
- His NBA rights were later traded to the Orlando Magic, where he participated in the 2021 NBA Summer League.
- He also played for the Lakeland Magic in the 2022 FIBA Intercontinental Cup.
EuroLeague Career
Timma’s most successful years came in Europe, where he made 96 appearances in the prestigious Turkish Airlines EuroLeague for clubs including:
- Baskonia
- Olympiacos
- Khimki Moscow Region
- UNICS Kazan
Timma’s EuroLeague run between 2017 and 2021 showcased his skills on the biggest European basketball stage.
Other Club Achievements
- Basketball Champions League: Played 7 games with Darussafaka Lassa during the 2023-24 season.
- EuroCup: Competed in 38 games for VEF Riga and Zenit.
- Baltic Basketball League: Timma was honored as the league’s MVP.
Latvian National Team
Timma was a proud representative of Latvia, competing in multiple tournaments:
- He won a bronze medal at the 2010 FIBA U18 European Championship.
- From 2014 onwards, he played a key role for the Latvian senior national team, earning respect as one of Latvia’s top basketball stars.
4. Struggles and Personal Challenges
Despite his professional success, Timma’s personal life was marred by struggles, particularly in his final years. His separation from Anna Sedokova took a significant emotional toll. The couple’s highly publicized relationship and subsequent divorce were reportedly difficult for the athlete, with Timma openly discussing his pain and heartbreak on social media.
In October 2024, Timma left the United States and moved to Moscow, where he joined a 3×3 basketball club. However, reports suggest that his mental health continued to deteriorate in the months leading up to his death.
5. Mental Health in Professional Sports
Timma’s tragic death underscores the importance of mental health support in professional sports. Athletes often face immense pressures—on and off the court—that can take a severe emotional and psychological toll. Porzingis’ message serves as a critical reminder:
“Human connection is the cornerstone of our mental health. Please, let’s look after one another.”
This sentiment resonates with fans and fellow athletes, calling for more awareness and proactive support systems for mental well-being in the sports world.
Remembering Janis Timma
Janis Timma’s death is a heartbreaking loss for the basketball community. At just 32 years old, Timma leaves behind a legacy of talent, hard work, and passion for the game. His contributions to the Latvian national team and European basketball will be remembered by fans and teammates alike.
As the investigation into his death continues, the focus shifts to honoring his memory and addressing the broader conversation about mental health awareness among professional athletes.
Rest in peace, Janis Timma.
FAQs
1. Who was Janis Timma?
Janis Timma was a professional Latvian basketball player who played in the EuroLeague, EuroCup, and Latvian national team. He was also drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2013 NBA Draft.
2. What was the cause of Janis Timma’s death?
Timma’s death has been preliminarily ruled as suicide, though investigations are ongoing.
3. What teams did Janis Timma play for?
Timma played for European clubs like Baskonia, Olympiacos, Khimki Moscow Region, UNICS Kazan, and Darussafaka Lassa.
4. What was the impact of his relationship with Anna Sedokova?
Timma’s relationship with Ukrainian singer Anna Sedokova was tumultuous and widely publicized. Their divorce reportedly had a profound emotional impact on him.
5. How is the basketball community honoring Janis Timma?
Euroleague Basketball has announced a moment of silence before all Round 16 games. Tributes from players like Kristaps Porzingis and fans continue to pour in.
