Former NBA head coach and current TNT broadcaster Stan Van Gundy opened up about the unimaginable loss of his wife, Kim, who died by suicide last August. They had been together for close to 40 years, and her passing has left a lasting impact on him. Van Gundy shared that he struggles to come to terms with never seeing her again and is trying to stay connected through memories and living by her values. He has been engaging in therapy to cope with the grief but acknowledges that the pain of losing her will likely never fully diminish.
In addition to dealing with his wife’s death, Van Gundy has faced other losses, including the recent passing of his brother Jeff’s best friend due to cancer. This string of tragedies has forced him to examine how death has become a more prevalent part of his life and has raised questions about finding joy and purpose amidst the sorrow. While he continues to function day to day and find solace in his children, he grapples with the heaviness of grief that surrounds him.
Van Gundy’s honesty about his mental state has been a source of comfort and connection for him, as he has been able to lean on his children and former players for support. Despite the immense pain he carries, he believes in being truthful about his struggles while also not burdening others with his grief. Connecting with his past players and having them by his side has brought a sense of solace during this difficult period. He values their presence and offers them the same kindness they show him.
Having dedicated four decades to coaching basketball, Van Gundy has had a successful career that has seen him rise through the ranks to become an NBA head coach for various teams. Even after his wife’s death, he continued to work at TNT and remain involved in the sport he loves. His resilience and perseverance in the face of such devastating loss is a testament to his strength and determination to press forward.
As he navigates through therapy and seeks ways to process the grief that looms over him, Van Gundy remains focused on honoring his wife’s memory and living by the values she instilled in him. Despite the challenges he faces on a daily basis, he finds comfort in his kids, the support of others, and the memories he holds dear. By sharing his story and speaking candidly about his journey through grief, Van Gundy hopes to inspire others to seek help and find ways to cope with loss. His courage in confronting his pain serves as a reminder of the power of resilience and the importance of seeking support during times of crisis.
