John Calipari offers condolences to Karl-Anthony Towns after death of his mother

The Kentucky basketball family got some devastating news on Monday, as it was announced former Wildcat (and current Minnesota Timberwolves star) Karl-Anthony Towns’ mother had died after a battle with COVID-19.

Coach John Calipari is still very close with the Towns family, so this news hit home for them, as well.

On Monday evening, Coach Cal took to Twitter to share his condolences with his former player and Karl Towns Sr., saying he’s sure Karl-Anthony will carry on his mom’s spirit:

Ellen and I are absolutely devastated and shocked. @KarlTowns and his dad called us earlier and we could tell something had happened. It’s one of the hardest phone calls I’ve ever had to take. We were getting updates that she was getting better and now this. https://t.co/qwX47xj8b5

— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) April 13, 2020

Ms. Jackie was a special woman and I know @KarlTowns will carry on her spirit. May she rest in peace.

— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) April 13, 2020

It sounds like Ms. Jackie made quite the impact on those she crossed paths with during her life. Calipari and his wife, Ellen, clearly thought a lot of her and the entire Towns family.

Our thoughts go out to the Towns family during this difficult time, too.