You could also argue that no one has had a stronger mother-son bond than Kathy Drysdale and Derek Lively II. Drysdale battled cancer for more than 10 years, even as Lively took another step in her basketball career.
On Friday, the Dallas Mavericks big man paid an emotional and heartfelt tribute to his mother, who sadly passed away after a battle with cancer.
“My heart is breaking as I say goodbye to the most important person in the world to me, my best friend, my superhero, my biggest cheerleader and mother, Kathy Drysdale. No one can love you more than your mother. “She's strong and stubborn. For the past 11 years, I've watched her fight, fight and survive cancer. And now her fight is with her family, Ended up surrounded by my friends, teammates. I really can't imagine my life without her, but I know that I will always and forever be in the stands cheering for my angel and yelling at me if I'm feeling bullish. I have an angel who will give me…'' Lively posted on her Instagram account.
undefined
derek lively instagram
“My mother was a beautiful soul who was loved by everyone she crossed paths with and loved by every team I played for, from Team Finals to Westtown, Duke and the Mavericks. Dr. Hall, And thank you to the amazing nurses and team at UT.'' Southwestern Hospital and the Mavericks for their constant support, without whom I would not have been able to spend these last precious moments. . I love you and will always miss you, Mom, just know that I'm okay. Please fly high. (Expletive) Cancer. “
undefined
derek lively instagram
Lively missed the Mavs' remaining six games due to knee soreness. Before Dallas' game against the Detroit Pistons on Friday night, head coach Jason Kidd addressed Lively's injury and Drysdale's passing.
“Incredible woman. We talk about D-Live's mother. Incredible,” Kidd said. “As much as we talk about his injury, he has other things going on and the world will learn of his mother's death. But D-Live was at work this morning. I wanted to get back into the swing of going.
“He had spoken to the team before, but it was unbelievable for a 20-year-old player to talk about what he's been through off the court, not only about his injury, but also his mother, but then… Soon after, my mother passed away.'' Derek Lively as the young man talking to the team is truly incredible. ”
The Mavs also released an official statement this evening.
“We are deeply saddened and heartbroken by this loss. On behalf of our organization and team, we would like to send our deepest condolences to the entire Drysdale family who are facing an unimaginable loss. Kathy's strength, tenacity, and joy are reflected in her son as well. She inspires each and every one of us within the Dallas Mavericks organization and those lucky enough to spend time with her. He left an indelible mark on everyone he touched. Our thoughts and prayers are with Derek and his entire family.”
From all of us at DallasBasketball.com, our thoughts and prayers go out to Lively and her family as they grieve and navigate this difficult time.
