Tony Parker Jr. and the basketball world are in mourning. The San Antonio Spurs icon announced today the passing of his father, Tony Parker Sr., a former Loyola standout and a legend in European basketball, at the age of 70.
Born in Chicago in 1955, Parker Sr. played for the Loyola Ramblers from 1973 to 1977. He spent most of his professional career overseas, playing for teams in the Netherlands, France, and Belgium.
Tony Sr. was a guiding force for his sons: Tony, the eldest, became an NBA star; T.J. Parker went on to coach ASVEL in France; and Pierre Parker also enjoyed a successful playing career.
The cause of death has not been disclosed, but a family statement confirmed that Parker Sr. was found deceased Sunday afternoon at Tony Jr.’s home.
A tragic loss that leaves a deep void
In a statement to AFP, Parker Jr. described his father’s death as “sudden and unexpected.” He added that “his passing leaves a huge void” in his life and in the lives of his loved ones.
Still, he emphasized that his father instilled in the family “his passion for basketball, his strength of character, and his human values.” These qualities, he said, helped shape the man he is today.
Tony Jr. reiterated the deep admiration he has always held for his father, calling him “an inspirational father” and “a deeply loved figure.”
How Tony chose basketball over football
In a past interview, Parker Sr. shared how his son came to embrace basketball. He recalled that Tony’s first sport was football, and that he never pressured him to follow in his footsteps.
But one moment changed everything. “Tony chose basketball,” Parker Sr. said. “But it wasn’t until he saw Michael Jordan play that he finally chose basketball over football.”
Though Parker Sr. never played in the NBA, his legacy lives on through his son’s accomplishments – four championships and a Finals MVP. His influence on the game and his family is undeniable.
May he rest in peace.
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