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Kevin McHale's daughter passes away at 22

Alexandra "Sasha" McHale had an auto-immune disease.

Matthew Emmons-US PRESSWIRE

The daughter of Boston Celtics legend Kevin McHale died at the age of 22 on Saturday.

Alexandra "Sasha" McHale had lupus, an auto-immune disease, and was hospitalized with a related condition, according to the Houston Chronicle.

"I extend my deepest condolences to Kevin and Lynn for the loss of their beautiful daughter, Sasha, on Saturday afternoon," Rockets owner Leslie Alexander said in a statement on Sunday. " 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."

Kevin McHale, the head coach of the Houston Rockets, has been on a leave of absence to be with his family since Nov. 10, according to the report. Kelvin Sampson has been the acting head coach in McHale's absence.

McHale played 13 seasons with the Boston Celtics from 1980 to 1993. Over his career, McHale averaged 17.9 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. He was inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame as a player in 1999.

McHale was an executive with the Minnesota Timberwolves from 1995 through 2008. He coached the team twice, in 2004-05 and 2008-09, in that stint.

He has spent the last two seasons as the head coach of the Rockets. Houston went 34-32 last season.