Former NBA Player Stan Love Dies at 76, Father of Heat's Kevin Love

Miami Heat forward Kevin Love announced Sunday the death of his father, Stan, at the age of 76.

"You have undoubtedly been my greatest teacher," Kevin said. "A role often served by a Father figure. You taught me admirable qualities like respect & kindness. Humor & wit. Ambition & work ethic. Grit & aggressive will. The insight that failure brings. And that time is our most precious commodity.

"Over the years my Dad and I had our differences. I mourn the times I felt angry and isolated — my heart weighs heavy knowing we lost that time and can't get it back. But our division led to me finding myself. I was running from something but that time away provided the wisdoms of forgiveness and reconciliation. And an unwavering sense that he loved me through it all, in every moment."

Stan Love played four seasons in the NBA across spells with the Baltimore Bullets and Los Angeles Lakers. He also suited up for the San Antonio Spurs when they were still in the ABA. In 239 appearances, he averaged 6.6 points and 3.9 rebounds.

Love had a decorated college career prior to arriving in the NBA. He averaged 21.1 points on 49.3 percent shooting along with 10.5 rebounds in three seasons as a varsity player at Oregon. The 6'9" forward was a first-team All-Pac 8 honoree in his junior and senior years.

Kevin Love missed the Heat's final 12 games of the regular season and hasn't suited up for them in their first-round playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers. He was absent at the start of the year as well due to a personal family matter.

Down 3-0 to Cleveland, Miami is facing a must-win Game 4 on Monday night.