Cavs assistant coach dies at 41

Osowski, 41, had 20 years of coaching experience and worked alongside head coach Paul Silas for the 2003-04 campaign, their first season with the Cavaliers.

"This is a tragic loss for all of us," said Cavs GM Jim Paxson. "Mark lived life to the fullest and he worked passionately every day. He was such a vibrant and dynamic person to be around. I respected him greatly, as did our entire organization. He will be missed very much."

The duo of Silas and Osowski also worked together as assistants for two years with the Charlotte under Dave Cowens. Osowski remained on the staff when Silas was named the head man midway through the 1998-99 season. Subsequent to that, Osowski spent three years with the Golden State Warriors before reuniting with Silas in Cleveland.

"Mark had a very positive impact on the players and staff alike," Silas said. "He touched all of us every day with his charisma and sense of humor. He was a wonderful friend and one of the hardest working people I’ve ever worked with. We worked closely together, side by side, for many years and it is difficult for me to express how much I’m going to miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Kristin, her family and Mark’s family."

Osowski is survived by his wife Kristin-Ann.