Naz Reid pays tribute to slain sister with purple shoes during Timberwolves game
Naz Reid, the Minnesota Timberwolves center, took to the court wearing a striking pair of purple shoes, a heartfelt tribute to his sister, Toraya Reid, who was tragically murdered last September. The emotional display of remembrance unfolded during a recent game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto.
A Family Tragedy
On September 6, 2022, Toraya Reid was fatally shot by her boyfriend in Jackson Township, New Jersey. The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office reported that the incident occurred at the Paragon Apartment complex, where police found Toraya unresponsive, having suffered multiple gunshot wounds. Her boyfriend has since been charged with murder and several weapons violations, having allegedly fled the scene following the shooting.
In the aftermath of this devastating loss, Naz Reid has been open about the impact it has had on his life and his family. “It’s been a tough time, but I’m surrounded by support,” he shared, highlighting the importance of his teammates and their camaraderie.
A Personal Connection
The purple shoes, however, serve as more than just a fashion statement. Reid explained that they are a nod to his sister’s favorite color. “No, these are Kobes. But my sister’s favorite color was purple, so I wear them,” he said, revealing the personal significance behind his choice.
In the weeks following the tragedy, as the Timberwolves prepared for their season opener, Reid leaned heavily on the support of teammates Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels. Their bond, forged over years of growth and shared experiences since their respective arrivals in Minnesota, has helped Reid navigate this challenging period. “I just had a situation recently and they were there,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of brotherhood in sports.
Coping with Loss
When asked how he was managing emotionally, Reid offered a glimpse into his coping mechanisms. “I’m fine. Been better. Been on the up and up. Like I said, I’ve had people around me, supporting,” he stated. He acknowledged the unpredictability of life and the importance of having support during difficult times. “Things don’t really go as planned in life, but there’s a lot of situations where I got a lot of support, and it helps a lot.”
As Reid embarks on another NBA season, he reflects on his role as a player and a brother. “Toraya was super protective and treated us like she was our parent,” he recalled, further illustrating the deep familial bond he shared with his sisters.
Aiming Higher on the Court
This season, Reid is expected to take on the role of sixth man once again. However, he is determined to elevate his performance from the previous season, admitting that he struggled with consistency, particularly as the season progressed. With the love and memory of his sister driving him forward, Naz Reid aims to make a significant impact both on and off the court.
