The basketball world has been rocked by heartbreaking news involving the family of Minnesota Timberwolves center Naz Reid. His 28-year-old sister, Toraya Reid, was tragically killed in New Jersey, leaving her loved ones in shock and grief. Police have confirmed that her boyfriend has been charged with her murder.
According to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, Toraya was found early Saturday morning with multiple gunshot wounds near the exit of an apartment building in Jackson Township. Authorities revealed that Jackson Township police responded after receiving multiple calls reporting gunfire. When officers arrived, they discovered Toraya gravely wounded, and she was pronounced dead shortly after.
Investigators quickly identified 29-year-old Shaquille Green as a suspect in the case. Green, who was in a romantic relationship with Toraya and shared residence with her in Jackson Township, was taken into custody shortly after the incident. Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer confirmed that Green is facing serious charges, including murder and unlawful possession of a weapon. He is currently being held in an Ocean County jail awaiting a detention hearing.
The devastating news has sent shockwaves through the Reid family and their community. While Naz Reid has not yet issued a public statement, he expressed his grief through social media. The Timberwolves star shared two childhood photos of himself and his sister, a subtle but powerful tribute to the sibling bond they shared.
Meanwhile, other family members have openly mourned the loss. Their sister, Jakahya, posted an emotional message on Facebook, struggling to come to terms with the tragedy.
“We always send our condolences and say we could never imagine ourselves in that situation... and yet here I am. Facing the unimaginable. Without you by my side,” she wrote.
Jakahya’s post reflected the depth of her anguish. She revealed that she had spoken to Toraya just the night before her death, recalling their lighthearted conversation and expressing disbelief that life could change so drastically within hours.
“I just talked to you last night bro we was ki’ing bout this n**** not even knowing what was waiting on you the very next morning,” she wrote in one part of her tribute.
Her words captured the overwhelming sense of disbelief and anger she felt toward the sudden and violent loss.
“I’ll never get over this I’ll never forgive god for taking you away from me, idk what kind of sick plan that man above has but I know losing you couldn’t have been a part of it.
“I can’t even phantom (sic) putting your name and death in the same sentence. This s*** real so surreal. The whole way home I was just hoping and praying it was some kind of sick joke. That you would call me and tell me it wasn’t true.
“I’m disgusted. I’m hurt. But most of all I’m angry. I will never be okay.”
The Reid family’s grief is shared by many who knew Toraya personally and those who have followed Naz Reid’s career. Toraya’s death marks a devastating chapter for a family that has been a strong support system behind one of the NBA’s rising stars.
Naz Reid, who grew up in New Jersey, has built his basketball career through perseverance and hard work. After showcasing his talent at Louisiana State University, he entered the 2019 NBA Draft, where he was picked up by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Known for his versatility and energy on the court, Reid has steadily become an important part of the Timberwolves’ lineup. Earlier this year, he secured a contract extension with the team, signaling the franchise’s faith in his long-term potential.
The news of his sister’s death has cast a shadow over what was supposed to be an exciting phase in his professional journey. Teammates, fans, and fellow athletes are rallying around him during this painful period.
As the legal process unfolds, attention will remain on the case against Green. Authorities continue to piece together the events that led to the shooting, but for the Reid family, the loss is already irreparable. The violent nature of Toraya’s death has left her family struggling not only with grief but also with unanswered questions about why such a tragedy occurred.
For the Timberwolves organization, this is more than just the loss of a player’s family member—it is a moment of human sorrow that underscores the fragile nature of life. Support from the NBA community is expected to pour in, with many likely to stand by Reid as he navigates this unimaginable loss.
Naz Reid’s resilience has been a defining trait of his career, but this personal tragedy will test his strength like never before. While basketball may eventually provide an outlet for his grief, it is clear that healing from such a profound loss will take much more than time.
The Reid family’s words reflect the raw pain of losing a loved one so suddenly and violently. The emotional tributes from Jakahya show not only their sorrow but also the deep bond they shared with Toraya. The memory of her life will live on through those who loved her most, even as they grapple with the reality of her absence.
For now, the focus remains on seeking justice, supporting the family, and honoring Toraya’s life. As the investigation continues, her memory will remain etched in the hearts of those who knew her best.
