NBA Reporter From Grand Rapids Has Passed Due To Covid

NBA reporter and analyst Sekou Smith has passed. The Grand Rapids native died Tuesday night due to complications from the Covid-19 virus. He worked for Turner Sports for decades covering the NBA as a TV reporter and TV analyst. It should be noted that Smith was also a devout fan of Michigan Wolverine basketball thanks to his upbringing in Michigan.

Many friends and colleagues reached out with statements paying tribute to Smith and his professionalism, serving in so many areas in the field, from analyst and reporter to writer and podcaster.

"We are all heartbroken over Sekou's tragic passing. His commitment to journalism and the basketball community was immense and we will miss his warm, engaging personality," Turner Sports said in a statement. "He was beloved by his Turner Sports and NBA friends and colleagues. Our deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones." - ESPN

NBA commissioner Adam Silver had this to say:

"The NBA mourns the passing of Sekou Smith, a beloved member of the NBA family," Silver said in a statement. "Sekou was one of the most affable and dedicated reporters in the NBA and a terrific friend to so many across the league. He covered the game for more than two decades, including the past 11 years with Turner Sports, where he showed his full range of skills as an engaging television analyst, podcast host and writer. Sekou's love of basketball was clear to everyone who knew him and it always shined through in his work. Our heartfelt condolences go to his wife, Heather, and their children, Gabriel, Rielly and Cameron." - ESPN

Smith leaves behind a wife and three daughters.