SAN ANTONIO, Texas — The basketball world is mourning the loss of Tony Parker Sr., a former Loyola University Chicago standout, respected professional player overseas, and the father of NBA legend Tony Parker, who has passed away at the age of 70.
According to family members, Parker Sr. died at his son’s home earlier this week. His death was described by Tony Parker as “very sudden and rather unexpected,” leaving friends, teammates, and fans stunned by the loss of a man who was deeply woven into the fabric of French and American basketball.
A Life in the Game
Tony Parker Sr. was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, where his love for basketball began at a young age. Standing tall, quick, and fiercely competitive, he became a standout guard at Loyola University Chicago, playing for the Ramblers from 1973 to 1977.
During his collegiate career, Parker Sr. earned a reputation as a disciplined and versatile player — a floor general who led by example both on and off the court. Coaches and teammates described him as driven, selfless, and deeply passionate about the game.
Following his collegiate career, Parker Sr. took his talents overseas, playing professionally in Europe, where he spent much of his life and became a respected figure in the European basketball community. His skill and leadership helped pave the way for American players in international leagues during the 1970s and 1980s, when overseas careers were still a relatively rare path for U.S. athletes.
Building a Legacy in France
It was during his time in Europe that Parker Sr. became a well-known and beloved personality in French basketball circles. He embraced life abroad, making France his second home and raising his family there — including his three sons, Tony, T.J., and Pierre Parker — all of whom would grow up surrounded by the sport their father loved.
Tony Parker, who went on to become one of the greatest European players in NBA history, has often credited his father’s influence for shaping his love of the game and his competitive mindset.
“Everything I am started with him,” Tony Parker once said in a 2013 interview. “My dad taught me how to love basketball, how to play with heart, and how to fight for what I believe in. He was my first coach — on the court and in life.”
That influence extended beyond basketball. Parker Sr. was known among friends for his warmth, humor, and unwavering dedication to family. In France, he was more than a former athlete — he was considered a mentor and a bridge between generations of players.
A Father’s Impact
Though his son Tony became a four-time NBA Champion and Finals MVP with the San Antonio Spurs, Parker Sr. never sought the spotlight. Instead, he focused on family, guiding his sons with quiet strength and constant encouragement.
T.J. Parker followed in his father’s footsteps into coaching and currently serves as head coach of ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne, the French club owned by his brother Tony. The Parker family’s deep roots in French basketball can be traced directly back to their father’s pioneering years as an American player abroad.
“He taught us discipline, respect, and passion,” T.J. said in an earlier interview. “He was more than a father — he was a teacher. He showed us how to turn challenges into motivation.”
A Sudden and Unexpected Loss
According to family sources, Tony Parker Sr. passed away at his son’s home. The exact cause of death has not yet been confirmed, though initial reports suggest it was sudden and natural in nature. Authorities are conducting an investigation to confirm the details, but foul play is not suspected at this time.
Friends close to the family have described the loss as “a tremendous shock.” Tony Parker Sr. had been in good spirits in recent weeks and was reportedly enjoying time with his family and grandchildren.
Tony Parker shared a heartfelt message on social media, writing, “We lost our father, our inspiration, our rock. It happened so suddenly. I still can’t believe it. He gave us everything — his love, his guidance, his strength. Rest in peace, Dad. You will always be with us.”
A Legacy Beyond Basketball
Parker Sr.’s life stretched beyond the court. After retiring from professional basketball, he devoted himself to mentoring young players and supporting grassroots sports programs in both France and the United States. He believed deeply in the power of sport to shape character and community.
Friends and colleagues recall him as a man of integrity, humility, and compassion — someone who never forgot his Chicago roots but who embraced the French culture that became home to his family.
“He was the kind of person who made you feel like family right away,” said a former teammate from his European playing days. “He was tough on the court, but off it, he had a smile that could light up a room. Everyone respected him.”
Tributes from Around the World
The news of Parker Sr.’s passing prompted an outpouring of condolences from across the basketball community.
The San Antonio Spurs released a statement offering their sympathies to the Parker family:
“The Spurs organization extends its deepest condolences to Tony Parker and his family. Tony Sr. was an incredible influence on the game of basketball both in the U.S. and in France, and his legacy lives on through the countless players he inspired.”
In France, the French Basketball Federation (FFBB) paid tribute to Parker Sr. as “a pioneer and a beloved figure who helped shape the identity of French basketball.”
Fans in both France and the United States have shared memories and photos online, celebrating not just the player he was, but the man he became.
Remembering a Life Well Lived
Tony Parker Sr. leaves behind a lasting legacy — one built on love for basketball, dedication to family, and the quiet strength of a man who lived fully, gave generously, and inspired deeply.
He is survived by his three sons — Tony, T.J., and Pierre — and several grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are being made privately by the family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.
For the Parker family and the wider basketball world, this loss marks the end of an era. But the values Tony Parker Sr. instilled — humility, perseverance, and heart — will continue to live on through his children, his community, and the generations of players he inspired.
In His Son’s Words
In closing his public message, Tony Parker wrote simply:
“He was my first hero. My dad. I’ll miss him every day. Thank you for everything. Love you forever.”