Sending condolences to Lakers guard Wayne Ellington and his family. The guard was granted a leave of absence from the team after his father was murdered in Philadelphia.
Earlier that day, Ellington had sent a text message to his son, encouraging him.
“Ball hard! Get the first win tonight,” the father texted.
The shooting remains under investigation, with no known suspects or motive.
Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak issued a statement
“Our players are upset for their friend and teammate. Additionally, ownership and all Lakers employees are also saddened by this tragedy,” Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak said in a statement. “Those of us who work with and have gotten to know Wayne have come to know what a wonderful and caring person he is. Our hearts go out to Wayne and his family, as do our thoughts and prayers.”
