Basketball identity Kenny McFadden has died aged 61.
He had suffered from polycystic kidney disease, a genetic disorder which requires regular dialysis until a suitable donor can be found.
He had a kidney transplant several years ago.
The cause of death is unknown at this stage.
Photo: PHOTOSPORT
McFadden played college basketball in the United States before moving to New Zealand in 1982 and helped Wellington Saints win four national championships before retiring in 1996.
He was then heavily involved in junior development in the game and was closely involved with now NBA player Steven Adams.
Adams has paid tribute to McFadden on social media.
“Kenny McFadden was not just a coach. But a father figure for a lot of us who had the privilege of being coached by him,” said Adams.
I’m one of many who have benefitted from him changing my life. Whether it was academics or on the court. He was always armed with a story/ legend to keep me on my path.
He will live on through the memories and values he has given us.
Thank you for believing in me.
— Steven Adams (@RealStevenAdams) March 24, 2022
“First impressions of him were always positive because of his contagious smile and swag.”
“I’m one of many who have benefitted from him changing my life. Whether it was academics or on the court.”
“Thank you for believing in me.”
-RNZ
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