Suns' Chandler takes leave of absence to mourn mother

Tyson Chandler has taken a leave of absence from the Phoenix Suns as he mourns the passing of his mother.

The 34-year-old center missed the Suns' last two games to grieve with family and friends over the loss of Vernie Re Threadgill, who died of cancer Tuesday.

Chandler released the following statement:

The 15-year vet is averaging a career-high 13.3 rebounds to go along with 7.4 points on 67.7 percent shooting in seven games.

Alex Len and Dragan Bender have been filling in for him in his stead.