Ricky Rubio's mother dies of lung cancer
Brett Davis / USA TODAY Sports
MINNEAPOLIS - Minnesota Timberwolves point guard Ricky Rubio's mother has died after a long battle with lung cancer.
Rubio's family announced Wednesday that 56-year-old Tona Vives had died.
She was treated all through the last season, seeing doctors in both Spain and Minnesota. Rubio delivered his best NBA season for the Timberwolves last year while trying to help his mother through the treatments.
The family says in a statement: ''While we mourn the loss of an incredible woman, we also celebrate her remarkable life.''
Rubio flew home to Spain after the season ended to spend time with his mother. A funeral will be held in Barcelona on Friday.