L.A. Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak's 15-Year-Old Daughter Alina Dies: Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant Pay Their Respects

"My prayers are with the Kupchak family. There are no words to describe such a loss R.I.P Alina #LakerFamily," Kobe tweeted

By Bruna Nessif Jan 06, 2015 4:03 AMTags
Mitch KupchakAP Photo/Damian Dovarganes

There was a tragedy in the Lakers family today.

"Alina Claire Kupchak, daughter of Lakers General Manager Mitch and his wife Claire, passed away this morning at the age of 15 after a lengthy illness," the Los Angeles NBA team said in a statement today. "The family asks for and appreciates their privacy at this difficult time, and would like to express their gratitude for everyone's love, support, thoughts and prayers."

Retired basketball player Earvin "Magic" Johnson tweeted, "My condolences go out to a super friend and teammate, Mitch Kupchak and his wife Claire on the passing of their 15 year old daughter Alina."

Meanwhile, Kobe Bryant also took to social media to pay his respects in regards to the sad news, writing, "My prayers are with the Kupchak family. There are no words to describe such a loss R.I.P Alina #LakerFamily."

Mitch Kuphak first joined the L.A. Lakers as a power forward and won a title with the team back in 1985, making this his 28th season with the NBA team.

Kupchak took over the position of general manager in 2000 after being mentored by the team's former GM Jerry West, and has led the Lakers to four championship titles in 2001, 2002, 2009 and 2010.

The Kupchak family also has a son, Maxwell Kupchak.