Houston Rockets coach Kevin McHale took a leave absence to deal with a family matter but didn’t really let anyone know what it was.  It turns out he went to be with and take care of his daughter Alexandra “Sasha” McHale who suffered from Lupus.  Sadly the fatal illness took her life Saturday afternoon.  Read more after the jump.

Shay Marie

She had been hospitalized since Nov. 10 with lupus. She was 22.

Rockets owner Leslie Alexander released a statement from the team: “I extend my deepest condolences to Kevin and Lynn for the loss of their beautiful daughter, Sasha,on Saturday afternoon. Kevin and Lynn are loving and dedicated parents who will need our continued support throughout this very difficult time. Our entire organization is mourning the McHale family’s loss and we ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.”

Assistant coach Kelvin Sampson has been coaching the team during McHale’s leave of absence.

I send my deepest condolences to McHale and his family.