Dominican Republic’s Karl-Anthony Towns celebrates with physiotherapist Bladimir Regalado after beating Angola and sweeping Group A of the Fiba World Cup. -FIBA PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — Dominican Republic physiotherapist Bladimir Regalado died of a heart attack on the way home from the Philippines from the Fiba World Cup, the team has announced.
Regalado’s death came days after the Dominicans wrapped up their campaign in the World Cup held in Manila.
“With deep sadness, we report the death of Bladimir Regalado, physiotherapist of our National Team, who suffered a heart attack on the flight back from the Philippines, where he accompanied our team in the FIBA World Cup 2023,” the team wrote.
“We are deeply sorry for this loss and send our condolences to his family, friends and loved ones. Bladimir Regalado was a fundamental pillar in the team, dedicated and passionate about his work. Peace to your soul. His efforts and commitment to the world of Dominican basketball will always be remembered. Rest in peace, NBA.”
Karl-Anthony Towns shared photos and videos of the team physiotherapist on Instagram.
“This one hurts,” said Towns. “My last words to you were ‘I love you.’ RIP NBA.”
Another Dominican Republic player Angel Delgado also took to Instagram to express his grief.
“Omg I still can’t believe it, NBA you know how much I love you and this has broken my heart, have no words to say all that I thank you I will never have how to pay you everything brother, you left me brother f*ck I can’t really believe that no, no and I can not believe it you gave me your friendship you made me part of your family and that I’ll thank you all my life, you were the most joyful person and the person and seen in my life more believer in God, I’m going to miss my brother a lot,” Delgado wrote. “I have a broken heart. I will remember you as the happiest person in the world.”
Fiba also expressed its deepest sympathy to Regalado.
“The entire FIBA team sends its love and heartfelt condolences to [Dominican Republic] and the family of team physiotherapist Bladimir Regalado who tragically passed away while traveling home from the World Cup. Bladimir will be dearly missed by all,” Fiba wrote.