The NBA world is reeling from the death of popular TNT broadcaster Craig Sager earlier this week and that includes the Raptors.

Sager, who wore colourful outfits in the Don Cherry mold and was one of the most beloved figures in the basketball world, died Thursday following a long battle with leukemia.

There was an outpouring of love for Sager, who was 65, and Raptors coach Dwane Casey weighed in on Friday.

“I remember when TNT first got going, he was one of the first to do the sideline reporting. When you saw him, you knew it was a big game,” Casey said.

“I remember back in Seattle and Dallas, we had him a lot. He’s a heck of a person. I got to know him personally through (long-time NBA coach) Randy Wittman, who was my assistant in Minnesota. They owned a group of restaurants together, sports bars together. I got to know him from that standpoint. Just a colourful guy, full of life. We lost a legend. “Again, it’s amazing how sometimes we take things for granted. Health is one thing you can’t take for granted. We should be thankful for good health everyday, which I’m sure Craig would tell you if he were here.”

NBA Commisioner Adam Silver celebrated Sager in a statement, as did many teams and players.

“The Toronto Raptors join the NBA family in mourning the loss of Craig,” read a Raptors statement. “With his knowledge, insightful reporting and personality, he will be remembered as a terrific talent that entertained us and helped promote the game. He also served as an inspiration to many with his courage and strength. Our condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.”

Read More..