Karl-Anthony Towns is a prominent figure in basketball, especially following the New York Knicks’ recent NBA championship victory. His late mother, Jackie, who passed away in 2020, holds a special place in his heart.

In a post-game interview on Good Morning America, Karl-Anthony — engaged to Jordyn Woods — expressed gratitude to his mom for her strength and for teaching him to respect women.

“To be raised by a strong woman is such an honor. And to understand the value of women in my life and in the world — comes from her,” he stated. “Her impact in my life — can’t be outmatched, and her ability to show me the word love at its purest sense is the most important thing I’ve ever seen.”

Learn more about Karl’s late mother, Jackie, below.

Who Was Karl-Anthony Towns’ Mom?

Karl-Anthony’s mother was Jacqueline Cruz-Towns, affectionately known as Jackie. A native of the Dominican Republic, Jackie played a vital role in her son’s basketball career and became well-known among NBA fans during his time with the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Jackie and her husband, Karl Towns Sr., raised their family in New Jersey while supporting Karl-Anthony’s athletic dreams from a young age. As he emerged as one of the top prospects before attending the University of Kentucky and being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, Jackie was always one of his most passionate supporters.

How Did Karl-Anthony Towns’ Mother, Jackie, Die?

Jackie passed away on April 13, 2020, due to complications from COVID-19 after battling the virus for over a month. She was 59 years old.

The Minnesota Timberwolves announced her passing in a statement on behalf of the Towns family at that time.

Before her death, Karl-Anthony had publicly shared that his mother had been hospitalized and placed on a ventilator while receiving treatment. Her death occurred during the early months of the global COVID-19 pandemic.

What Has Karl-Anthony Towns Said About Losing His Mother?

Towns has openly discussed the profound impact of losing his mother. Since her passing, he has addressed the challenges of grief and emphasized the importance of family support while striving to honor Jackie through his achievements.

After the Knicks’ victory in the NBA championship in 2026, Karl-Anthony made sure to acknowledge Jackie by saying, “Thank you, mama. I appreciate you getting me one.”