Jānis Timma with his ex wife Anna Sedokova/image credit-BreakingLV
Jānis Timma News-Latvian professional basketball player Jānis Timma was found dead in Moscow on December 17, 2024, at the age of 32. His body was discovered at the entrance of a residential building in central Moscow. Preliminary reports from Russian emergency services suggest that the cause of death was suicide.
Timma’s untimely death follows a series of personal and professional challenges. In October 2024, he announced his decision to play professionally in Russia, a move that drew criticism due to the ongoing geopolitical tensions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This decision effectively ended his international career, as Latvian athletes are prohibited from participating in Russian sports events as a direct response to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
Janis Timma Wife-On the personal front, Timma had recently finalized his divorce from Ukrainian singer and actress Anna Sedokova on December 9, 2024. The couple, who married in 2020, had a tumultuous relationship, with reports indicating multiple separations and reconciliations before their eventual split. In the days leading up to his death, Timma shared distressing messages on social media, expressing emotional pain and suicidal thoughts. He accused his ex-wife of prioritizing financial matters over their relationship.
Throughout his career, Timma was known for his versatility on the court, playing both small forward and shooting guard positions. He began his professional journey in Latvia at the age of 17 and went on to play for various European teams, including stints in Spain with Baskonia and Monbus Obradoiro, as well as in Greece with Olympiacos and in Russia with Khimki. In 2022, he briefly joined the NBA G League, playing for the Lakeland Magic.
Timma also represented the Latvian national team, debuting in 2014 and participating in 35 matches, where he scored a total of 338 points. His last appearance for the national team was in July 2024 during the qualification tournament for the Paris Olympic Games.
The basketball community has expressed profound sorrow over Timma’s passing. Fellow Latvian and NBA player Kristaps Porziņģis shared a cryptic message on social media, stating, “Rest in peace, brother,” reflecting the shock and grief felt by many.
As investigations continue, the exact circumstances surrounding Timma’s death remain under scrutiny. His passing serves as a somber reminder of the mental health challenges that athletes may face, often exacerbated by personal and professional pressures.
FAQs
Who was Jānis Timma?
Jānis Timma was a Latvian professional basketball player known for his roles as a small forward and shooting guard. He began his professional career in Latvia at 17 and played for various European teams, including Baskonia in Spain, Olympiacos in Greece, and Khimki in Russia. He also represented the Latvian national team from 2014, participating in 35 matches and scoring 338 points.
What were the circumstances of Janis Timma death?
Timma was found dead on December 17, 2024, at the entrance of a residential building in central Moscow. Preliminary reports suggest that the cause of death was suicide, though investigations are ongoing.
What personal challenges did he face recently?
Timma had recently finalized his divorce from Ukrainian singer and actress Anna Sedokova on December 9, 2024. Their relationship was reportedly tumultuous, with multiple separations and reconciliations before the final split. In the days leading up to his death, Timma shared distressing messages on social media, expressing emotional pain and suicidal thoughts.
Why was his decision to play in Russia controversial?
In October 2024, Timma announced his decision to play professionally in Russia, a move that drew criticism due to the ongoing geopolitical tensions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This decision effectively ended his international career, as Latvian athletes are prohibited from participating in Russian sports events as a direct response to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
What impact did he have on the basketball community?
Timma was recognized for his versatility on the court and had a significant impact in various European leagues. His passing has elicited profound sorrow within the basketball community, with fellow athletes and fans expressing their condolences and reflecting on his contributions to the sport.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, it’s important to seek help. In the United States, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available at 1-800-273-8255. In Latvia, support is available through the Skalbes Crisis Center at +371 67222922.