NBA star Dereck Lively II announces death of his mother after her 11-year battle with cancer in emotional Instagram post: ‘My heart breaks saying goodbye to the most important person in the world to me’

Dallas Mavericks star Dereck Lively II announced the death of his mother, Kathy Drysdale, in a heartbreaking Instagram statement.

She battled cancer for more than a decade but was still a regular presence during her son’s journey to the NBA.

He wrote on Instagram: “My heart breaks as I say goodbye to the most important person in the world, my best friend, my superhero, my biggest cheerleader and mother, Kathy Drysdale.

‘There is no one in this world who can love you more than your mother.

“As strong and stubborn as she is, I have watched her struggle, fight and survive cancer for the past eleven years, and now her battle has ended, surrounded by family, friends and her teammates.

Lively posted a series of photos of his mother alongside a heartfelt message on Instagram

“I honestly can’t imagine life without her, but I know there’s an angel in the stands always and forever cheering on my angel and yelling at me when I’m a bull***.”

Lively has already been ruled out of the Mavericks’ game against the Detroit Pistons due to a right knee sprain he suffered last month.

Mavericks coach Jason Kidd revealed that Lively spoke to his teammates earlier on Friday before his mother passed away.

In a statement, the Mavericks said: “We are deeply saddened and heartbroken by this loss. On behalf of our organization and team, we would like to express our sincere condolences to the entire Drysdale family who are facing an unimaginable loss.

“So much of Kathy, her strength, tenacity and joy, is reflected in her son.

“She left an indelible mark on each of us within the Dallas Mavericks organization and on everyone who was fortunate enough to spend time with her. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Dereck and his entire family.”