OKLAHOMA CITY – An Oklahoma City Thunder assistant coach has decided to step away from the team and spend time with his family.
Last month, Monty Williams’ wife, Ingrid, was killed in a car accident near S.W. 17th St. and Western Ave.
The loss seemed to affect everyone on the team, including Thunder star Kevin Durant, who broke down in tears talking about Williams.
Monty Williams spoke at Ingrid’s funeral, saying that although he will miss her, he has to continue on for their five children.
On Friday, Thunder officials announced that Williams will not return to the team this season after his wife’s passing.
“The most important thing for Monty during this time is for him to be with his family, and the most important thing for us as an organization is to support him as a person, in any way that we can. Even though Monty will not return to the team this season, his presence will be felt by all of us within the program and we will remain close with him and his family,” said Thunder Executive Vice President Sam Presti.
“I have really enjoyed my relationship with Monty, and clearly we will miss him, but we value and embrace that it is critical he is there for his family at this time and our focus is on doing whatever we can, in any small way, to help him. He and his family will continue to be in our thoughts,” said Thunder head coach Billy Donovan.