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Stanley Johnson confirmed with a tweet on Sunday the loss of his mother, Karen Taylor.
Forever in my heart Always watching my back My angel from above I'm the luckiest kid in the world
— Stanley Johnson (@iAmSJ) August 2, 2015
Taylor was with Johnson on draft night when the forward was selected by Detroit, and the Pistons rookie was quick to credit his mother for all of his success.
"Today was awesome to have her there with me and experience the event," Johnson said. "She set the foundation for me. She has always been the hardest coach on me and the hardest person on me. She's also been the strongest person in my life. She's been waiting for this her whole life. I'm happy to give this to her because she truly deserves this. She coached me all the way up until I was 14, 15 years old."
Taylor was a star player at Jackson State, entering the school's hall of fame in 2009. She also played professionally overseas.
Detroit Bad Boys would like to send our thoughts and prayers to Stanley Johnson and his family during this difficult time.