Image Credit: Getty Images
Karl-Anthony Towns stands as one of basketball’s most recognized figures, particularly as the New York Knicks have secured their first NBA championship in many years. Holding a special place in his thoughts is his late mother, Jackie, who passed away in 2020.
During a post-game discussion on Good Morning America, Karl-Anthony, who is engaged to Jordyn Woods, lauded his mother for demonstrating immense fortitude and imparting to him the importance of honoring women.
“It is a profound privilege to have been raised by a woman of such strength. Understanding the value of women in my life and in the world – that stems from her,” he expressed. “Her influence on me is unparalleled, and her capacity to reveal the purest form of love is the most significant lesson I’ve ever encountered.”
Learn more about Karl’s late mother, Jackie, below.
View this post on Instagram
Who Was Karl-Anthony Towns’ Mom?
Karl-Anthony’s mother was Jacqueline Cruz-Towns, widely known as Jackie. A native of the Dominican Republic, Jackie was a consistent presence throughout her son’s basketball career and became a recognizable figure to NBA enthusiasts during his tenure with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Jackie and her spouse, Karl Towns Sr., nurtured their family in New Jersey, where they fostered Karl-Anthony’s athletic pursuits from his youth. As the basketball standout emerged as one of the nation’s premier athletic prospects before attending the University of Kentucky and subsequently becoming the top overall selection in the 2015 NBA Draft, Jackie remained one of his most ardent advocates.
How Did Karl-Anthony Towns’ Mother, Jackie, Die?
Jackie succumbed to complications arising from COVID-19 on April 13, 2020, after a month-long struggle with the virus. She was 59 years old at the time of her passing.
The Minnesota Timberwolves issued a statement on behalf of the Towns family, announcing the tragic news.
Before her death, Karl-Anthony had disclosed that his mother had been admitted to the hospital, placed on a ventilator, and put into a medically induced coma as medical professionals treated her. Her passing occurred during the initial stages of the global COVID-19 pandemic.
What Has Karl-Anthony Towns Said About Losing His Mother?
Towns has been open about the profound sorrow caused by the loss of his mother. In the years following her departure, he has spoken about the difficulties of grieving, the significance of familial support, and his resolve to honor Jackie’s memory through his achievements.
Following the Knicks’ triumphant NBA championship victory in 2026, which brought pride to New York, Karl-Anthony made a point to acknowledge Jackie, stating, “Thank you, mama. I appreciate you getting me one.”