Mitch Kupchak Daughter - The 15-year-old daughter of Los Angeles Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak has been reported dead.
A statement from the Lakers said the Alina Claire Kupchak passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, Jan. 6. She was reportedly battling with some form of cancer.
"The family asks for and appreciates their privacy at this difficult time, and would like to express their gratitude for everyone's love, support, thoughts and prayers," the statement said.
Mitch Kupchak's daughter Alina Claire Kupchak's death comes at a time when the team is struggling to reclaim their magic under new coach Byron Scott. It is unclear how this news will affect the Lakers.
Fans and acquaintances of Kupchak have taken to social media to express their condolences to the former Lakers player.
Lakers pressman Mike Trudell has described the passing of Alina Claire Kupchak as extremely saddening.
NBA and Lakers veteran Earvin Magic Johnson tweeted his condolences to Mitch Kupchak and his wife Claire before urging the public to do the same. "Laker Nation, please send your thoughts and prayers to our outstanding GM Mitch Kupchak and his family, he wrote.
Lakers frontman Kobe Bryant also extended his condolences to the Kupchak family. "My prayers are with the Kupchak family. There are no words to describe such a loss R.I.P Alina #LakerFamily," he wrote.
Mitch and his wife Claire Kupchak are reported to have another child - a son who is about 18-years-old.
Mitch Kupchak played for the Lakers between 1981 and 1986 before retiring to serve as the assistant general manager of the team under Jerry West. He later succeeded Jerry in that position. Under the leadership of Kupchak, the Lakers have won several championships and also made numerous playoff appearances.
