Timberwolves guard Ricky Rubio's mom dies at 56 of lung cancer

Published May 25, 2016

MINNEAPOLIS -- Minnesota Timberwolves point guard Ricky Rubio's mother has died after a long battle with lung cancer.

Rubio's family announced Wednesday that 56-year-old Tona Vives had died.

"We are heartbroken to share the news that today, Wednesday 25th of May, Tona Vives has passed away from lung cancer," the family said in a statement. "Tona was our beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend. How she impacted all our lives will never be forgotten."

She was treated all through the last season, seeing doctors in both Spain and Minnesota. Rubio delivered his best NBA season for the Timberwolves last year while trying to help his mother through the treatments.

"The Timberwolves organization is deeply saddened to learn of the passing today of Tona Vives, Ricky Rubio's mother," the team said in a statement. "The Timberwolves send our condolences to the Vives and Rubio families in this difficult time."

Several players expressed their condolences on Twitter, as well.

Rubio flew home to Spain after the season ended to spend time with his mother. A funeral will be held in Barcelona on Friday.

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