'This game's for her:' John Wall's emotional interview after young friend died of cancer

ByLA Blake KFSN logo
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
(AP)
AP-KFSN

NBA star John Wall gave a touching postgame interview Monday night as he remembered a young friend, 6-year-old Miyah Telemaque-Nelson, who died of cancer that morning.

Wall said he had dedicated the game to her, and he broke down when he was asked, "She really touched your heart, didn't she?"

The reporter then ended the interview so Wall could go to the locker room.

The Washington Wizards guard struck up a friendship with the little girl in March. Wall heard that Telemaque-Nelson, who had been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer called Burkitt's Lymphoma, dreamed of meeting rapper Nicki Minaj.

Minaj quickly responded after Wall's message, asking the little girl to come meet her.

Wall and Telemaque-Nelson stayed in touch over the months, and they spoke as recently as two weeks ago.

According to CSN Washington, Wall has also been writing Miyah's name on his shoes this season.

Both Minaj and Wall paid tribute to Miyah on Instagram. Minaj wrote, "I can't believe this little angel is gone. When I met her she was recovering. Sending love to her mother and family and John. This is heartbreaking. She was so full of life. #RIPMiyah"

In his first game since Miyah's death, which Wall dedicated to her, Wall had 26 points and 17 assists. His performance helped the Wizards beat the Boston Celtics in double-overtime.

After the game Wall wrote, "If you were blessed to meet and get to know Miyah you know how special of a little girl she was. I'm saddened by the news but I know that she's in a better place. Keep her family in your prayers. I'll definitely miss my buddy. Rest In Peace Miyah."