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Legendary Olympian Sends Message to Jimmy Butler After Emotional Post

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Mariano | Last updated Feb 9, 2025 10:32 AM ET

Jimmy Butler had a successful debut with the Golden State Warriors after they routed the Chicago Bulls, 132-111, at United Center on Saturday.

Butler scored 25 points on 7-of-12 shooting to help the Warriors pull off the comeback win after being down by as much as 24 points in the third quarter.

His output was the most by any player in his first game with the Warriors since Kevin Durant in 2016.

The day also had a much deeper meaning for Butler, as it was the first death anniversary of his father, Jimmy Butler Jr., and the birthday of a "good friend."

"One year since I lost my pops," wrote Butler on Instagram. "Love you and miss you so much! ❤️ HAPPY BIRTHDAY to a HELLA GOOD FRIEND/MOTHER/WIFE, (you know who you are)…and a damn DUB for DUB NATION ! Life is so good right now."

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A post shared by Jimmy Butler (@jimmybutler)

Legendary swimmer Michael Phelps sent a message of support for the Warriors forward.

"Sending love, homie," commented the 23-time Olympic gold medalist.

Phelps is a fan of Butler, expressing recently that his favorite team, the Phoenix Suns, needed to sign the six-time All-Star.

The 35-year-old Butler revealed in the documentary series "Starting 5" that he lost his father in the middle of the 2023-24 season due to terminal illness. It was a devastating period for Butler, who kept it a secret from his then-team, the Miami Heat.

He had a tumultuous exit with the Heat, who sent him to the Warriors in a five-team deal on Feb. 6.

After their win over the Bulls, Butler expressed how joyful he was to be playing again.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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