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Karl-Anthony Towns warms up before Game 3 between the Knicks and 76ers during the 2026 NBA Playoffs.

Karl-Anthony Towns has spoken openly throughout his NBA career about the devastating loss of his mother, Jacqueline Cruz-Towns, who died in 2020 after complications related to COVID-19.

The New York Knicks star shared an especially close relationship with his mother long before becoming one of the NBA’s biggest names, frequently crediting her for helping shape both his basketball journey and personal life.

As Towns continues drawing major attention during the Knicks’ playoff run, many fans continue revisiting the emotional story that deeply impacted both Towns and the basketball world.

Here’s a closer look at Jacqueline Cruz-Towns and the bond she shared with her son.

Jacqueline Cruz-Towns Died in 2020 After COVID-19 Complications

In April 2020, Towns announced that his mother had died after battling complications from COVID-19.

At the time, Towns publicly revealed that his mother had been hospitalized and placed on a ventilator during the early months of the pandemic.

Her death became one of the most heartbreaking stories in sports during that period, especially as Towns shared emotional updates throughout the process.

Karl-Anthony Towns Frequently Spoke About His Mother’s Influence

Towns frequently described his mother as the emotional center of his life and one of the biggest driving forces behind his basketball journey.

Throughout his rise from high school standout to Kentucky star and eventual No. 1 overall NBA Draft pick in 2015, Towns often credited Jacqueline for helping him stay disciplined, motivated, and grounded.

He also regularly spoke about wanting to make his family proud every time he stepped onto the court.

Towns Has Continued Honoring His Mother Throughout His NBA Career

GettyThe Minnesota Timberwolves honored Karl-Anthony Towns’ late mother, Jacqueline Cruz-Towns, before the team’s 2020-21 season opener.

Since her death, Towns has continued honoring his mother through interviews, social media posts, and emotional tributes.

NBA fans have continued seeing Towns honor his mother during major career moments, interviews, and personal reflections over the years.

Before the Timberwolves’ 2020-21 season opener, the organization held an emotional pregame tribute honoring Jacqueline Cruz-Towns following her death earlier that year. Images of Towns’ family appeared throughout the arena as players stood silently on the court during the moment of remembrance.

The Loss Deeply Affected Towns & His Family

Towns later revealed that multiple members of his family were impacted during the pandemic.

The Knicks star has spoken candidly about grief, mental health, and the emotional challenges that followed his mother’s death.

Many NBA players, coaches, and fans rallied around Towns during that time, with support pouring in from across the basketball world.

Towns Has Become an Advocate for Mental Health Awareness

In the years following his mother’s death, Towns became increasingly vocal about mental health awareness and emotional wellness.

He has openly discussed the importance of therapy, family support, and speaking honestly about grief.

Those conversations helped many NBA fans connect even more deeply with Towns beyond basketball.