Mirza Teletović through tears about Edin Avdić: "His premature departure is unfair, it's hard to accept that he's gone"

It was an emotional day in Sarajevo today. First, a memorial service was held, followed by the funeral of Edin Avdić, a sports journalist who passed away on June 3rd at the age of 47.

People from the world of basketball spoke at the commemoration, and Mirza Teletović was particularly emotional.

Edin and the former Bosnia and Herzegovina national basketball player and NBA ace had a lot in common. The connection between them was formed during the 2013 European Championship, when Teletović played from all positions, scored 31 points, and all this was accompanied by Avdić's characteristic commentary.

Years later, they built a friendship, and how close they were is evident in the way Teletović spoke about Avdić today.

"In this crazy time, Edin was a man who never deceived anyone, nor withheld a single word, and that is precisely why everyone loved and appreciated him immensely. Although his profession was related to speech and the microphone, he possessed a rare and precious virtue, he knew how to truly listen to others, and his friendship and support meant an immeasurable amount to me," Mirza began through tears.

Although he rarely showed weakness - today he couldn't help himself.

"You all know me as a man who rarely shows weakness. But today, the tears that have flooded the world are flowing. His untimely departure is unjust and it is difficult to accept that he is no longer with us."

Throughout his career, Avdić selflessly shared his knowledge with others.

"As a sports commentator, Edin knew everything about sports, and he truly lived basketball. He selflessly shared his vast knowledge and conveyed the game with pure emotion, with a unique desire for us all to feel the true beauty of sports. For every minute we spent together, advice and unique broadcasts - thank you very much," continued the former player of Sloboda, Ostend, Baskonia, Brooklyn, Phoenix and Milwaukee.

At the very end of his address, Teletović shared an anecdote related to Euroleague President Dejan Bodirog, who also spoke at the commemoration.

"I listened to Mr. Bodiroga's speech when they asked about Edin, since Dejan is from Trebinje, so I asked him, "My God, what kind of Dejo is he?" He told me, "Mirza, that's our man." That's it. Thank you," Teletović concluded.