Absolutely devastating news following the 76ers’ game tonight against the Indiana Pacers. 76ers assistant coach Dave Joerger has announced that he has “head and neck” cancer and will be leaving the team to undergo chemotherapy treatments. 

“Dave is not only one of the most talented and respected coaches in the NBA, but he’s a great friend, colleague, husband, and father. The same positivity, enthusiasm, and grit that have made him a successful coach will also carry him through his fight against cancer.” – Doc Rivers.

Joerger told ESPN that they were luckily able to catch it in the early stages and that he currently has over a 90% cure rate. It is horrible to see anyone go through this fight, but it seems like Joerger has a great support system around him to help him battle this.

Dave Joerger joined the 76ers staff following the hiring of Doc Rivers last offseason and has been a tremendous offensive assistant for the team. According to ESPN, Joerger has been undergoing treatments while coaching for the previous two weeks but stayed behind when the team left for their extensive road trip.

Everyone in Philadelphia and the entire basketball world is hoping for a full and speedy recovery for Dave Joerger, and hopefully, he can be back on the sidelines soon enough.

Mandatory Credit: Getty Images