Grieving Mavericks Rookie Pays Tribute To Mother

Dereck Lively II's Mother, Kathy Drysdale, Dies After Decade-Long Battle

11 Months Ago, Lively Sat Next to Kathy on a Blue Velvet Couch at the Barclays Center After the Draft

With the sunlight fading into the early fall evening, Dereck Lively II stepped outside. Throughout his rookie season, Lively had the best, most-trusted, loving companion a young man could ask for. Eleven months ago, Lively sat next to Kathy on a blue velvet couch at the Barclays Center after the draft. Kathy Drysdale, the mother of Mavericks rookie center Dereck Lively II, died Friday after a decade-long battle with cancer.

The Dallas Mavericks organization is deeply saddened by the passing of Kathy Drysdale, the mother of rookie center Dereck Lively II. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dereck and his family during this difficult time.

Lively posted a touching tribute to his mother on Instagram, writing, "My heart is broken. I love you so much, Mom. You were my best friend, my biggest supporter, and my biggest fan. I'm going to miss you so much. Thank you for everything, Mom. I love you."