MILWAUKEE — On Wednesday, Doc Rivers shared heartfelt memories of Bob Love, the former star forward for the Chicago Bulls, who passed away on Monday at the age of 81 after a prolonged battle with cancer.

Love, a three-time All-Star, spent 11 seasons in the NBA and had a profound impact on Rivers during his formative years in Chicago.

“He played a significant role in my life,” Rivers stated before the Bucks faced off against the Bulls in Milwaukee, his voice filled with emotion. “He was an incredibly impressive individual. When people think of Bob, they often recall his basketball career, but to me, he was more than just a player. I crossed paths with him at a young age when I was still in high school.”

Rivers recounted a memory of meeting Love at a park in Chicago and noticed the challenges Love faced due to his severe stuttering.

“I vividly remember him trying to speak with me and clearly struggling,” Rivers said. “That showed courage to me. Here was an NBA player taking the time to interact with a group of kids at the park. It left a lasting impression.”

This initial encounter sparked a lasting friendship between Rivers and Love.

“For some reason, Bob took a special interest in me,” Rivers shared. “He would gift me his shoes. He was an influential figure, a tough character. In many ways, he embodied the spirit of Chicago, particularly in terms of resilience and our upbringing.”

Rivers also reflected on how other young players in Chicago, such as Mark Aguirre and Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas, admired Love as well.

“Bob was a role model for us, and I believe we all drew strength from his toughness,” Rivers commented.

He highlighted Love’s remarkable career, noting that Love was an All-Star for three consecutive years from 1970 to 1973, and in the 1971-72 season, he led the team with an impressive average of 25.8 points per game.

However, Rivers remarked on the struggles Love faced after retiring from basketball, emphasizing how Love ultimately triumphed over one of his most significant challenges—his stuttering.

“He overcame perhaps the toughest battle he faced, which was his stuttering,” Rivers noted, visibly emotional.

Rivers expressed his desire for Love to be honored not only for his achievements on the basketball court but also for his character off it.

“I think it’s crucial to recognize individuals like him because he meant so much to so many kids,” Rivers explained. “He embodied not just the grit of a player, but also the strength he exhibited through life’s adversities.”