Knicks Announce Reggie Bullock and Dennis Smith Jr. Have Suffered Recent Family Deaths

The New York Knicks released a statement on the passing of Reggie Bullock's sister and Dennis Smith Jr.'s Stepmother

Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Knicks issued a statement announcing the deaths of Dennis Smith Jr.'s stepmother and Reggie Bullock's sister.

"Our Knicks family is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of two of our players’ close family members," Knicks President Steve Mills said in a statement. "At times like this, we are reminded that life is bigger than basketball. Our thoughts are with them and their families."

Smith missed Monday night's game and head coach David Fizdale said there was no timetable for his return as he copes with the sudden death in Fayetteville, North Carolina. 

Teammate Mitchell Robinson paid tribute to Smith Jr. by wearing the letters DSJ on his sneakers during the 105–98 win over the Chicago Bulls at Madison Square Garden.

Bullock has yet to make his Knicks' debut as he recovers from back surgery. This is Bullock's second sibling who has died in recent years. Bullock's transgender sister, Mia Henderson, was stabbed to death in 2014 and he has since become an outspoken advocate for the transgender community.