LA: Alexandra "Sasha" McHale, the daughter of Houston Rockets coach Kevin McHale, died Saturday afternoon, the team announced. She was 23 years old.
McHale took a leave of absence to be with his daughter and family in Minneapolis on Nov. 10. Sasha McHale had battled lupus, an autoimmune disease, and was hospitalized with a related condition, according to the Houston Chronicle, though the team never disclosed the specific reason.
"I extend my deepest condolences to Kevin and Lynn for the loss of their beautiful daughter, Sasha, on Saturday afternoon. Kevin and Lynn are loving and dedicated parents who will need our continued support throughout this very difficult time," owner Les Alexander said in a statement.
"Our entire organization is mourning the McHale family's loss, and we ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers."
Kelvin Sampson, who is coaching the team in McHale's absence, told reporters last week the situation was improving.
“It’s not out of the woods yet. There’s still a lot of concern, but it is improving," Sampson said.
The Rockets are 6-7 in their second season with McHale, a Hall of Famer who spent his playing career with the Boston Celtics, at the helm.
