Kristaps Porzingis drops cryptic 4-word message as 32-year-old ex-teammate dies in Moscow

Sad news came from Russia a few hours ago. One of Latvia’s most played basketball players, Janis Timma, was found dead in Moscow. The former Magic forward, only 32 years old, had only recently moved to Moscow to play 3×3 basketball. Sadly, his struggle with emotions is said to be the cause of his untimely passing. And the news has only just begun to hit some of his teammates, including compatriot Kristaps Porzingis.

In the wake of such devastating news, the Celtics center posted a cryptic message on his social media. He wrote “Ludzu saki ka nee” on a locked screen on his Instagram stories. Translated to ‘please say no’, Porzingis is clearly shaken by the tragic news of his former teammate’s death.

According to reports from Moscow, the cause of Janis Timma’s death is still under investigation and early reports suggest it may have been a suicide. This comes just a week after Latvian player and Ukrainian singer Anna Sedokova officially finalized their divorce. Timma had openly shared his struggles with emotional distress and his mental health challenges were something he talked about publicly on social media.

The couple had been married for four years before their separation in December. Sedokova has previously described their relationship as facing significant challenges. They had reportedly lived in separate cities before parting ways. Investigators have mentioned that a message from Sedokova was found on his phone, although the details of this are still part of the ongoing investigation.

Kristaps Porzingis and Janis Timma as teammates

Kristaps Porzingis last played for the Latvian team in 2021. But even though injuries derailed his participation, the towering center always considered it an honor to play for his nation. And a close teammate of his was Janis Timma. Their most memorable time came during the 2017 EuroBasket tournament.

The two spearheaded the team to a quarter-final appearance, losing to champions Slovenia. It was the best ranking Latvia has achieved in the competition to date. Timma averaged 14.3 points, 5.4 rebounds and 4 assists over the seven games, while Porzingis averaged 23.6 points per game. match.

Janis Timma was also briefly in the NBA Summer League. Drafted by the Grizzlies with the 60th pick in 2013, he never played in an official league game. His most recent appearance was in 2021, playing as part of the Orlando Magic, scoring 11 in his Summer League debut.

Although Janis Timma was unable to carve out an NBA career, he played professional basketball all over the world. Playing for VEF Riga in 2014, Tammis helped the team with the Latvian Basketball League. He also appeared for decorated clubs such as Olympiacos and Khimki Moscow in the Euroleague.