Jrue Holiday, the New Orleans Pelicans guard, has officially taken an indefinite leave from the NBA after receiving the news that his wife has been diagnosed with a brain tumor.

Lauren Holiday, the former U.S. soccer star, is currently eight-months pregnant with her and Jrue’s first child and is currently scheduled for a brain surgery six weeks after the baby’s birth in mid-October.

The news that Jrue Holiday is taking some time away from the NBA to care for his wife was confirmed earlier today (September 4) in a statement shared by Dell Demps, the Pelicans’ general manager. 

“We are all praying for a healthy delivery of their first child and a successful surgery for Lauren,” Demps said. “Furthermore, we ask everyone to respect the Holidays' privacy at this time.”

Lauren Holiday retired from playing soccer last year, with her career highlights including taking home gold at the Olympics in 2008 and 2012, as well as winning the FIFA World Cup in 2015. The couple first met while playing their respective sports at UCLA.

The Pelicans also spoke on Holiday’s behalf suggesting that he continue to be paid his $11M salary during his absence.

“We encourage Jrue to take as much time as he needs to be with his wife and family before returning to the Pelicans,” Demps added. “We will welcome Jrue back with open arms when he is ready to return to the team.”

We are keeping Jrue and Lauren Holiday in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.